The DSM-5 describes the essential feature of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as “a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity that interferes with functioning or development” (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are present in two or more settings, and were present prior to age 12 years. Symptoms must “interfere with, or reduce the quality of social, academic or occupational functioning” (American Psychiatric Association, 2013), and are not better explained by other mental disorders. Symptoms of inattention include but are not limited to difficulty sustaining attention, difficulty organizing tasks and activities, …show more content…
This prevalence rate decreases in adult populations, and is about 2.5%. ADHD is more frequent in males than females, with an approximate ratio of 2:1 in children and 1.6:1 in adults. ADHD begins in childhood, and several symptoms must present before the age of 12 years (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). ADHD often impairs academic or work performance, and individuals with ADHD may exhibit cognitive problems on tests of memory, executive function, and attention (American Psychiatric Association, …show more content…
Early research by Merry, Franzcp, Andrews, and Franzcp (1994) studied the psychiatric status of abused children 1-year after abuse disclosure. Studying sexually abused children, 4-16-year-olds, results showed that 19.6% of the population met the DSM-III-R diagnostic criteria for ODD, and 13.6% met criteria for an ADHD diagnosis (Merry, Franzcp, Andrews, & Franzcp, 1994). Ford et al. (1999) examined trauma exposure in children with ODD and ADHD, finding an association between ODD and a history of victimization trauma, including assault, mugging, family violence, community violence, or sexual