Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children: A Narrative Review

Abstract

This is a narrative review of the recent literature on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children. The research suggests that prevalence rates have varied between 5% and 17%. This variability may relate to age range differences of the samples or to different measures of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The global prevalence has increased from 5% to 11% in this recent literature and the prevalence appears to be greater in western countries. Very few negative effects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have been addressed. They include negative effects on health, social behavior, cognitive/academic performance and sleep. Other disorders have been comorbid including depression, anxiety and conduct disorder. Predictors/risk factors have been the primary focus in this literature and have included parent variables of prenatal depression, pregnancy and secondhand smoke exposure. Effective interventions have been stimulant and non-stimulant medications and massage therapy. Potential underlying mechanisms for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children include heritability and prenatal depression. Although the data highlight the prevalence and severity of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, they have been primarily based on parent-report surveys that have yielded mixed results across samples.