DSM-IV

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Assesments
DSM-IV

DSM-IV Criteria For ADHD

A. Either (1) or (2):

     (1) Six (or more) of the following symptoms of inattention have persisted for at 6
          months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental
          level

Inattention

         (a) often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in
               schoolwork, work, or other activities
         (b) often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
         (c) often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
         (d) often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish
               schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to
               oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions)
         (e) often had difficulty organizing tasks and activities
         (f) often avoids, dislikes, or reluctant to engage in tasks that
               require sustained mental effort (such as school or homework)
         (g) often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school,
               assignments, pencils, books, or tools)
         (h) is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
         (i)   is often forgetful in daily activities

    (2)  six (or more) of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have
          persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent
          with developmental level:

Hyperactivity

         (a)   often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
         (b)   often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining
                seated is expected
         (c)   often runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is
                inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to
                subjective feelings of restlessness)
         (d)   often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
         (e)   is often "on the go” or often acts as if “driven by a motor”
         (f)   often talks excessively

Impulsivity

         (g)   often blurts out answers before the questions have been completed
         (h)   often has difficulty awaiting turn
         (i)   often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or
               games)

B. Some hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that caused impairment
were present before age 7 years.

C. Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g., at school [or work] and at home)

D. There must be clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.

E. The symptoms do not occur exclusively during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia, or other Psychotic Disorder, and are not better accounted for by another mental disorder (e.g., Mood Disorder, Anxiety, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder).

Code based on type:

314.01 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Combined Type: if both Criteria A1 and A2 are met for the past 6 months.

314.0 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Type: if Criterion A1 is met but Criterion A2 is not met for the past 6 months.

314.01 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Hyper-Impulsive Type: if Criterion A2 is met but Criterion A1 is not met for the past 6 months.

Coding note: For individuals (especially adolescents and adults) who currently have symptoms that no longer meet full criteria, “In Partial Remission” should be specified.