Skip to main content
. 2018 Jun 1;11(3):254–259. doi: 10.5005/jp-journals-10005-1522

Table 1: Summary of the DSM-IV (1994) diagnostic criteria for ADHD10,11

Inattention     
1.  Often fails to give close attention to details in school work, work, or other activities     
2.  Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities     
3.  Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly     
4.  Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace     
5.  Often has difficulty organizing tasks or activities     
6.  Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks or activities     
7.  Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli     
8.  Is often forgetful in daily activities     
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity       
1.  Often fidgets with hands or feet and squirms in seat     
2.  Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected     
3.  Often runs about or climbs excessively in situations where it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults may be limited to feelings of restlessness)     
4.  Often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly     
5.  Often “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor”     
6.  Often talks excessively     
7.  Often blurts out answers to questions before the questions have been completed     
8.  Often has difficulty waiting in line or awaiting turn in games or group situations     
9.  Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)