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. 2009 Sep 17:9:58.
doi: 10.1186/1471-244X-9-58.

Developmental psychopathology: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Sören Schmidt  1 , Franz Petermann
Affiliations

Developmental psychopathology: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Sören Schmidt et al. BMC Psychiatry. .

Abstract

Background: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), formerly regarded as a typical childhood disorder, is now known as a developmental disorder persisting over the lifespan. Starting in preschool-age, symptoms vary depending on the age group affected.

Method: According to the variability of ADHD-symptoms and the heterogeneity of comorbid psychiatric disorders, a broad review of recent studies was performed. These findings were summarized in a developmental psychopathological model, documenting relevant facts on a timeline.

Results: Based on a genetic disposition and a neuropsychological deregulation, there is evidence for factors which persist across the lifespan, change age-dependently, or show validity in a specific developmental phase. Qualitative changes can be found for children in preschool-age and adults.

Conclusion: These differences have implications for clinical practice as they can be used for prevention, diagnostic proceedings, and therapeutic intervention as well as for planning future studies. The present article is a translated and modified version of the German article "Entwicklungspsychopathologie der ADHS", published in Zeitschrift für Psychiatrie, Psychologie und Psychotherapie, 56, 2008, S. 265-274.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Developmental psychopathological model of ADHD over the life span [modified from 13].
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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