THE IDENTIFICATION OF PERVASIVE HYPERACTIVITY - IS CLINIC OBSERVATIONNECESSARY

Three groups of hyperactive children (clinic observed, reported and si tuational) and a normal control group were compared on measures of beh avioural, developmental and cognitive functioning. The clinic observed and reported groups did not differ significantly on any of the depend ent variables. Situationally hyperactive children were less active, an d had fewer behavioural and social difficulties than children with per vasive hyperactivity. Normal control subjects were distinguished by th eir better academic and social performance, and the absence of behavio ur problems, language delay and hearing concerns. The data support the distinction between pervasive and situational hyperactivity, but not the separation of pervasive hyperactivity into clinic observable and r eported hyperactivity.