Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Using Brain Activation (nir-HEG/Q-EEG) and Execution Measures (CPTs) in a ADHD Assessment Protocol
13:09

Using Brain Activation (nir-HEG/Q-EEG) and Execution Measures (CPTs) in a ADHD Assessment Protocol

Published on: April 1, 2018

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Ajay K Thapar1, Anita Thapar

  • 1Department of General Practice, University of Wales College of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN.

The British Journal of General Practice : the Journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
|December 26, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects many children, and primary care plays a key role in its management. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective intervention, despite ongoing controversies surrounding ADHD.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Child Psychology
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

  • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) impacts 1.4%–6% of children globally.
  • Primary care settings are increasingly vital for ADHD recognition and management.
  • Significant controversy surrounds ADHD diagnosis and treatment approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the empirical evidence behind controversial aspects of ADHD.
  • To address issues of under- and overdiagnosis.
  • To clarify the roles of etiology and psychosocial factors in ADHD.

Main Methods:

  • Discussion paper format.
  • Review of empirical data on ADHD diagnosis, etiology, outcomes, and psychosocial factors.
  • Analysis of controversial elements within the ADHD literature.

Main Results:

  • Evidence supports the validity of ADHD as a diagnosis when systematically applied.
  • Controversies regarding under- and overdiagnosis require careful consideration of diagnostic criteria.
  • Psychosocial factors play a role, but do not negate the neurodevelopmental basis of ADHD.

Conclusions:

  • Accurate and systematic ADHD diagnosis is scientifically supported.
  • There is no valid scientific reason to dismiss the concept of ADHD.
  • Intervention for diagnosed ADHD is warranted based on empirical evidence.

More Related Videos

The Adventures of Fundi Intervention Based on the Cognitive and Emotional Processing in Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Patients05:48

The Adventures of Fundi Intervention Based on the Cognitive and Emotional Processing in Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Patients

Published on: June 12, 2020

Event Related Potentials (ERPs) and other EEG Based Methods for Extracting Biomarkers of Brain Dysfunction: Examples from Pediatric Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)10:02

Event Related Potentials (ERPs) and other EEG Based Methods for Extracting Biomarkers of Brain Dysfunction: Examples from Pediatric Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Published on: March 12, 2020

Related Concept Videos

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder01:30

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Learning Disabilities01:25

Learning Disabilities

Learning disabilities are cognitive disorders caused by neurological impairments that affect cognitive functions like language and reading, without indicating overall intellectual or developmental challenges. These disabilities differ from global intellectual or developmental disabilities as they are limited to distinct cognitive functions. Common learning disabilities include dysgraphia, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, each of which impacts unique aspects of learning.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Adrenal Gland Disorders01:27

Adrenal Gland Disorders

Adrenal gland disorders manifest when the production of adrenal hormones deviates from the norm, resulting in either excessive or insufficient concentrations.
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
Modeling in Therapy01:26

Modeling in Therapy

Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...