SUMMARY OF THE PRACTICE PARAMETERS FOR THE ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT OF CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, ACID ADULTS WITH ADHD

This summary of the practice parameters describes the assessment, diff erential diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults who present with symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder . The rationales for specific recommendations are based on a review of the scientific literature and clinical consensus which is contained i n the complete document. Assessment includes clinical interviews with the child and parents and standardized rating scales from parent and t eachers. Testing of intelligence and academic achievement is usually r equired. Comorbidity is common. The cornerstones of treatment are supp ort and education of parents, appropriate school placement, and psycho pharmacology. The primary medications are psychostimulants, but antide pressants and a-adrenergic agonists are used in special circumstances. Other treatments such as behavior modification, school consultation, family therapy, and group therapy address remaining symptoms.