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Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder

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Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Mark C. Giesler
University of Dayton

Due to Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder not being recognized as a disability under IDEA, there is no legal or federal definition to reference. However, the most commonly used definition comes from the American Psychiatric Association, which states “The essential feature of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. (APA, 2013)” In order to be classified as having this disorder, there has to be three characteristics shown. These characteristics are persistency, frequency, and severance of the essential features. The American Psychological Association also states that these symptoms must be present for at least 6 months, and before the age of 12. There are many life factors that could spark symptoms of AD/HD for short periods of time such as peer influences and tragic events, which is why guidelines must be met in order to be classified.
The prevalence of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is rather interesting and is very spread out amongst genders and ethnic groups. It is estimated that between 3 to 5% of children that attend school suffer from AD/HD (APA, 2000), and 1.35 to 2.25 million children are suspected of struggling with AD/HD (Turnbell et al., 1995). This ultimately categorizes as one of the most occurring forms of exceptionality. When it

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