Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurobiological condition that affects 5-8 percent of school age children in the U.S. Symptoms persist into adulthood in as many as 60 percent of these cases. (National Resource Center on AD/HD, 2008) There is no single medical, physical, or genetic test that can distinguish AD/HD. A diagnostic evaluation provided by a qualified mental health professional in combination with a physician is used for diagnosis. Information from multiple sources is collected, including information from teachers, parents, and family members, care providers, and significant others who know the person well. The clinical symptoms used for diagnosis are found in the American Psychiatric Association diagnostic manual commonly referred to as the DSM-IV-TR. Given symptoms fall into three groups, inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Clinical symptoms of inattention include not paying close attention to details or making careless mistakes, difficulty sustaining attention in tasks, not following through on instructions and failing to finish tasks, difficulty organizing activities, appears not to listen when spoken directly to and is easily distracted by outside activity, and often loses things. Symptoms of hyperactivity include fidgeting and difficulty remaining seated, difficulty engaging in quiet, leisurely activities, and excessive talking. Impulsivity symptoms include difficulty awaiting turn, blurting out before a question is finished, and interrupting others. (National Resource Center on AD/HD, 2008)

Current treatment procedures include multimodal treatment, considered to be highly effective. Multimodal treatment involves using multiple elements that work together and support each other. These elements include education about diagnosis and treatment, behavior management techniques, stimulant medication, and customized educational programs. (National Resource Center on AD/HD, 2008)