Attached.

Running head: ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Student’s name
Institution
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ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

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Introduction
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder commonly
diagnosed in children and can at times continue to persist into adulthood. Children with the
condition have difficulties paying attention and are often hyperactive and have difficulty
controlling their impulses (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). The condition is in most
cases discovered during early school years. In adults, ADHD is characterized by difficulties in
managing time, maintaining relationships, and holding a job. Individuals also struggle with low
self-esteem and goal setting.
Why the Name of the Disorder
The condition derives its name for its core symptoms which must be present for a
diagnosis to be made. Attention deficiency describes an individual fails to pay attention.
Children with the condition are characterized by a lack of persistence and difficulty in sustaining
focus. They are also disorganized and wanders off from one task to another. Hyperactivity means
that one constantly moves even when this is not desirable. Children with the condition find
trouble in settling down and often move about constantly and are characterized by extreme
restlessness or engaging others in constant activities. In a normal situation, a child should find it
easy to settle down among their peers and tend to move about less especially when in a
classroom or at home. However, children with the condition find it hard to settle down or even
engage in simple activities over a short period of time. As such, the name of the condition is
attributed to the symptoms.

ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

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History
Since the 18th century, conditions similar to ADHD have been described despite not
always being seen as disorders or being recognized as they are today. The first publication to
describe a condition similar to ADHD was a publication by Melchior Adam Weikard in 1775.
The German physician wrote a book which described ADHD-like behaviors which were
characterized by inattention as noted by the American Psychological Association. In the book,
the author described that individuals who demonstrated hyperactivity and inatte...