Extract

This book represents an important step in the conceptualization of the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults. The book is divided into 14 chapters. The second chapter offers an excellent literature review related to the evolution and validation of the ADHD diagnosis, as it applies to adults. It also offers a solid discussion related to the prevalence of the disorder in adults. In Chapter 3, the authors address some of the problems associated with the DSM-IV diagnostic classification structure for ADHD, in relation to diagnosing adults. This chapter contains information that is essential for any clinician working, in a diagnostic context, with adults who potentially suffer from ADHD. This chapter covers important information such as the trouble with the generalizability of the diagnostic criteria from children to adults and the difficulties with the age criteria (before 7 years) associated with the diagnosis. The chapter also discusses the concept of impairment associated with the diagnostic criteria and guidelines associated with establishing the existence of impairment. For instance, in relation to defining impairment, the authors caution against comparisons to ‘some high-functioning specialized peer group or index of general cognitive ability, such as IQ scores.’ Some neuropsychologists will likely find these clinical cautions to be thought-provoking, if not somewhat controversial.

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