Long-term prognosis in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

This article reviews controlled, prospective follow-up studies of children with attention-deficit disorder (ADHD) into young adulthood and adulthood. In their late teens, those with ADHD as children, compared with non-ADHD co mparisions, show relative deficits in academic and social. functioning. In addition, about two-fifths of these children continue to experience ADHD sy mptoms, and a significant minority demonstrate pervasive antisocial behavio rs, including drug abuse. Many of these same difficulties persist into adul thood. Compared with the comparisons, former ADHD probands complete less fo rmal schooling, hold lower ranking occupational positions, and continue to exhibit poor social skills, antisocial personality, and symptoms of the chi ldhood syndrome. On the other hand, as adults, nearly all former cases are gainfully employed, some in higher level positions, and a full two-thirds s how no evidence of any mental disorder. Although relative deficits are seen in early to middle adolescence, young adulthood, and adulthood, childhood ADHD does not preclude achieving one's educational and vocational goals, an d the majority of these children do not experience emotional or behavioral problems by their mid-twenties.