A. Either (1) or (2):
1. Six (or more) of the following symptoms of inattention have persisted for at least six months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:
Inattention
  • a. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work or other activities

  • b. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities

  • c. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

  • d. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions)

  • e. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities

  • f. Often avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)

  • g. Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils, books or tools)

  • h. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

  • i. Is often forgetful in daily activities

2. Six (or more) of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have persisted for at least six months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:
Hyperactivity
  • a. Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat

  • b. Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected

  • c. Often runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness)

  • d. Often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly

  • e. Is often “on the go” or often acts as if “driven by a motor”

  • f. Often talks excessively

Impulsivity
  • g. Often blurts out answers before questions have been completed

  • h. Often has difficulty awaiting turn

  • i. Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)

B. Some hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that caused impairment were present before age 7 years.
C. Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g., at school [or work] and at home).
D. There must be clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, academic or occupational functioning.