Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder DSM Criteria Guide

Use this page when the goal is to focus quickly on the DSM-style structure for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Six or more symptoms of inattention are present for at least 6 months, or five or more if age 17 years or older.
The symptoms are inconsistent with developmental level and have a direct negative effect on social, academic, or occupational activities.
Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace.
Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities.
Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli or unrelated thoughts.
Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Six or more symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity are present for at least 6 months, or five or more if age 17 years or older.
The symptoms are inconsistent with developmental level and have a direct negative effect on social, academic, or occupational activities.
Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in seat.
Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate, or in adolescents and adults may feel restless.
Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
Is often on the go or often acts as if driven by a motor.
Often talks excessively.
Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.
Often has difficulty waiting turn.
Often interrupts or intrudes on others.

There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with or reduce the quality of social, academic, or occupational functioning.

Symptoms interfere with social, academic, or occupational functioning and are not better explained by another mental disorder.

Predominantly inattentive presentation applies if enough inattentive symptoms are present but enough hyperactive-impulsive symptoms have not been present for the past 6 months.
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation applies if enough hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are present but enough inattentive symptoms have not been present for the past 6 months.
Combined presentation applies if both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptom thresholds have been met for the past 6 months.

Mild applies when few, if any, symptoms beyond the diagnostic threshold are present and impairment is minor.
Moderate applies when symptoms or impairment fall between mild and severe.
Severe applies when many symptoms beyond the diagnostic threshold are present, several symptoms are especially severe, or symptoms cause marked impairment.

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