The proper classification of ADHD is still undecided, however, over the past 60 years there have been any different terms used to describe the disorder. A few include: minimal brain dysfunction, Attention deficit Disorder and Hyperkinetic Impulse Disorder. ADHD’s classification can become complicated when scientific research suggests that different behaviors are directly connected to ADHD, yet different research suggests that these behaviors need to be classified independently as ADHD.
The defining characteristics of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Inattention means lacking attention. A child with symptoms of inattention may have trouble listening and following directions or staying organized. Hyperactivity describes when a child is unusually and effortlessly excited. Short attention span and strong emotions describe a person who is hyperactive. And finally, impulsivity is when a person carries out a behavior without prior thought of the consequences. Impulsivity can be behavior, as in the things a person does, or cognitive, as in the way a person thinks and makes choices. A child with ADHD may experience difficulties at home, school, and with friends. At home a child may have trouble following the rules or completing homework. Conflict may occur at bedtime or mealtime. At school the child may be disruptive, and may have trouble concentrating and following class routines. “Children with ADHD perform