Deconstructing Diagnostic Criteria for ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a highly prevalent disorder across development. Early detection is a critical first step to early intervention but the average age of diagnosis is 7. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, (DSM-5) includes 18 symptoms for ADHD. The purpose of this project is to determine how these 18 symptoms individually map onto effortful control, surgency, and negative affect (measured via the Child Behavior Questionnaire) in 3-6 year olds. A better understanding of how ADHD symptoms manifest in this age range has the potential to move the average age of diagnosis and help connect children with resources earlier.