Life Span Studies of ADHD-Conceptual Challenges and Predictors of Persistence and Outcome.
There is a renewed interest in better conceptualizing trajectories of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) from childhood to adulthood, driven by an increased recognition of long-term impairment and potential persistence beyond childhood and adolescence. This review addresses the following major issues relevant to the course of ADHD in light of current evidence from longitudinal studies: (1) conceptual and methodological issues related to measurement of persistence of ADHD, (2) estimates of persistence rate from childhood to adulthood and its predictors, (3) long-term negative outcomes of childhood ADHD and their early predictors, and (4) the recently proposed new adult-onset ADHD. Estimates of persistence vary widely in the literature, and diagnostic criteria, sample characteristics, and information source are the most important factors explaining variability among studies. Evidence indicates that ADHD severity, comorbid conduct disorder and major depressive disorder, and treatment for ADHD are the main predictors of ADHD persistence from childhood to adulthood. Comorbid conduct disorder and ADHD severity in childhood are the most important predictors of adverse outcomes in adulthood among children with ADHD. Three recent population studies suggested the existence of a significant proportion of individuals who report onset of ADHD symptoms and impairments after childhood. Finally, we highlight areas for improvement to increase our understanding of ADHD across the life span.
['Caye|Arthur|A|', 'Swanson|James|J|', 'Thapar|Anita|A|', 'Sibley|Margaret|M|', 'Arseneault|Louise|L|', 'Hechtman|Lily|L|', 'Arnold|L Eugene|LE|', 'Niclasen|Janni|J|', 'Moffitt|Terrie|T|', 'Rohde|Luis Augusto|LA|']
D000293:Adolescent D000328:Adult D000367:Age Factors D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity D002648:Child D002675:Child, Preschool D015897:Comorbidity D019955:Conduct Disorder D003865:Depressive Disorder, Major D005260:Female D006801:Humans D008297:Male D012720:Severity of Illness Index D055815:Young Adult
Predictors Persistence Outcomes ADHD Course Longitudinal investigations