the diagnosis of ADHD calls for symptoms that are severe, out of proportion to expectations according
to the child’s age or developmental level, and persistent and for which there are
no appropriate alternative explanations. The disorder is typically diagnosed in childhood,
but affected persons frequently remain symptomatic into adulthood.
ADHD is associated with low rates of high-school graduation and completion of
postsecondary education and poor peer relationships, even when it is appropriately
managed, leading to high economic and social burdens.