adhd criteria dsm 5

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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14-03-2025

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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder impacting focus, attention, and impulse control. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), provides the criteria for diagnosing ADHD. This article will delve into those criteria, clarifying what constitutes an ADHD diagnosis.

Key Features of ADHD According to DSM-5

The DSM-5 outlines two core presentations of ADHD: predominantly inattentive presentation, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, and a combined presentation encompassing both. Regardless of the presentation, a significant number of inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms must be present to meet the diagnostic threshold.

DSM-5 Criteria for Inattentive Symptoms

To receive an ADHD diagnosis based on inattentive symptoms, a person must exhibit at least six of the following symptoms for at least six months to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and negatively impacts social, academic, or occupational functioning:

• Lack of attention to detail or making careless mistakes: This goes beyond typical occasional errors. The individual consistently overlooks details or makes numerous mistakes, impacting the accuracy of their work.
• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play: They struggle to focus on activities, even those they enjoy, often shifting their attention easily to other stimuli.
• Appears not to listen when spoken to directly: They may seem to be “in their own world,” even when others are actively communicating with them.
• Difficulty following through on instructions and failing to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties: This is not due to defiance but a struggle to maintain focus and complete tasks.
• Difficulty organizing tasks and activities: This includes planning, prioritizing, and managing time effectively, leading to disorganization and difficulty managing responsibilities.
• Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort: They may actively avoid tasks that demand concentration, preferring less demanding activities.
• Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork): This is a frequent occurrence, impacting their ability to perform daily tasks.
• Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli: Minor distractions can significantly disrupt their concentration and focus.
• Often forgetful in daily activities: They may forget appointments, commitments, or daily routines, leading to disruptions in their life.

DSM-5 Criteria for Hyperactive-Impulsive Symptoms

For a diagnosis based on hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, at least six of the following must be present for at least six months, inconsistent with developmental level and negatively impacting social, academic, or occupational functioning:

• Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat: This manifests as constant movement and restlessness, even when it’s inappropriate for the situation.
• Leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected: They struggle to remain in one place, often leaving their seat without a clear reason.
• Runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness): This involves excessive physical activity and difficulty controlling movement.
• Difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly: They struggle to relax and engage in quiet activities, needing constant stimulation.
• “On the go” or often acts as if “driven by a motor”: They display excessive energy and activity, often appearing restless and agitated.
• Talks excessively: They may interrupt conversations frequently or talk incessantly, making it difficult for others to participate.
• Blurts out answers before questions have been completed: They struggle to wait their turn or control their impulses, interrupting frequently.
• Difficulty waiting turn: They struggle to wait for their turn in games, activities, or conversations, often interrupting or pushing ahead.
• Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games): They have difficulty respecting personal space and social boundaries, often interrupting others inappropriately.

Combined Presentation

Many individuals exhibit a combination of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. The DSM-5 allows for a "combined presentation" diagnosis if the criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are met.

Important Considerations for Diagnosis

It's crucial to remember that a diagnosis of ADHD requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or pediatrician. These professionals consider the developmental stage of the individual, rule out other potential conditions, and assess the impact of the symptoms on daily life. Self-diagnosing based solely on reading criteria is not recommended. Furthermore, symptoms must be present before age 12 to meet the diagnostic criteria. The symptoms must also be present in two or more settings (e.g., home and school).

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for ADHD.