ADHD in Adulthood: Criterions and Definitions
Margherita Lang, Francesca Scarpellini, Matilde Zanchi, Silvia Cavedoni
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that, as opposed to what has been observed for decades, endures in adulthood with features partially different from those observed in children and adolescents. With reference to the most recent ADHD treatment guidelines, the present article aims to get a comprehensive picture of such condition, in the light of several considerations regarding current categorical diagnostic systems and the role of hierarchical models. Subsequently, characteristic features of disorder will be examined thoroughly, considering constructs such as mind wandering, Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) and executive functions, beside hyperactivity, impulsiveness, inattention and emotional dysregulation. Finally, some considerations regarding the complexity of approaching the disorder in adulthood will enable to delineate future research.
Keywords
ADHD, Adults, Mind wandering, Sluggish Cognitive Tempo, Executive functions, Hyperactivity, Impulsiveness, Inattention, Emotional dysregulation, Diagnostic systems.