DSM-IV ADHD Criteria

The DSM-IV criteria for the diagnosis of ADD requires that:

• Six or more symptoms of inattention have persisted for at least six months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with the developmental level OR six (or more) symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have persisted for at least six months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with the developmental level.
• Some hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that caused impairment were present before age seven years.
• Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings: i.e. at school, at home, at work.
• There must be clear evidence of significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.