is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
(I) often forgetful in daily activities
(2) Hyperactivity - Impulsivity: At least five of the following symptoms of hyperactivity - impulsivity have persisted for at least six months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:
(a) often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat (b) leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
(c) often runs about or climbs excessively in situations where it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness)
(d) often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
(e) is always "on the go" or acts as if "driven by a motor"
(g) often blurts out answers to questions before the questions have been completed
(h) often has difficulty waiting in lines or awaiting turn in games or group situations
(i) often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into others' conversations or games)
B. Some symptoms that caused impairment were present before age seven.
C. Some symptoms that cause impairment are present in two or more settings (e.g., at school, work, and at home).
D. There must be clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.
E. Does not occur exclusively during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia or other Psychotic Disorder, and is not better accounted for by Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder.
It should be noted here that because everyone shows some of the behaviors associated with ADD/ADHD, the diagnostic criteria provided in the DSM (American Psychiatric Association, 1994) contain very specific guidelines for determining when they indicate the disorder. The behaviors must appear early in life, before age 7, and c...