Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
The current chapter highlighted the comorbidity of ADHD with other psychiatric conditions like autism spectrum, learning disorders, bipolar disorder, externalizing problems, and sleep difficulties along with familial and academic difficulties.
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common psychiatric condition in children. It comprises three core characteristics, namely inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The current chapter highlighted the comorbidity of ADHD with other psychiatric conditions like autism spectrum, learning disorders, bipolar disorder, externalizing problems, and sleep difficulties along with familial and academic difficulties. It also focused on the behavioral manifestation of ADHD including mental health issues like anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, suicide, substance use, and sensory processing deficits. The common treatment for ADHD includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Psychological treatment follows the use of behavioral principles used in operant conditioning. Parent and teacher training methods aim to empower them in regulating antecedents and consequences to bring desired changes in behavior. Other interventions discussed in the chapter are cognitive behavioral therapy and physical activity training.