From the Editor

Abstract

This paper examines the historical origins and development of the concept of Attention-Deficit! Hyperactivity Disorder, currently known as ADHD. Early roots in neurology, pediatrics, education, and psychology are traced to the present American Psychiatric Association concept of a dual subtype involving attention and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Changes from a syndrome involving brain damage and brain dysfunction, to a symptom-oriented classification system are described. The early history of the "hyperkinetic syndrome" and its association with stimulant drug treatment shows a fundamentally different approach to the diagnosis than current symptomoriented approaches, which drop requirements for learning disabilities and neurological signs. Controversies regarding the nature of the concept, its treatments, and etiologies are presented. Recommendations are made with respect to needed future conceptual and empirical changes.