J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  1998 Sep;37(5):932-941.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adolescents and Adults

• Lee YS
• Bang YW

Abstract

It seems best to view ADHD as a developmental disability that comprises impairments in persistence of effort(sustained attention), the ability to delay responding and inhibit behavior(impusivity), and the regulation of excessive activity level or responding in situations(hyperactivity). These problems tend to arise early in childhood, often during the preschool years, and persist in over half the cases into adulthood as adult ADHD. ADHD in adolescents and adults responds to treatment with stimulants, tricyclic antidepressants, etc. Nonpharmacologic modalities such as behavior modification, individual and family therapy and cognitive therapy are useful adjuncts to psychopharmacologic management. Without effective treatment, ADHD often results in increased risk of trauma, substance abuse, conduct disorder, marital dishamony, family dysfunction, divorce, and incarceration in adolesence and adulthood. Lifelong treatment with proper medication and counselling are important to ADHD.

Keyword

Adolescence; Adult; ADHD; Pharmacotherapy; Psychosocial Intervention

MeSH Terms

Adolescent*
Adult*
Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic
Behavior Therapy
Cognitive Therapy
Conduct Disorder
Developmental Disabilities
Divorce
Drug Therapy
Family Therapy
Humans
Substance-Related Disorders
Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic