While hyperactivity in children has been alternately viewed as a form of minimal brain dysfunction, as a behavior disorder, or as an attention deficit disorder, recent findings on hyperactive adolescents and adults suggest that hyperactivity can be better understood as a personality disorder. Striking similarities appear when characteristics of…

Describes prospective longitudinal studies that pertain to stability, developmental pathways, and long-term outcome for conduct problems and hyperactivity. Reviews treatment outcome studies for these problems with at least one year of follow-up data. Discusses implications of longitudinal research for diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of…

The present study was designed to define the relationship between the supposed syndrome of hyperactivity and that of aggressive conduct disorder. (Author/DB)

In response to the issues raised by B. Feingold regarding the possible role of food additives as a cause of hyperactivity and learing disability, the Nutrition Foundation organized a critical review of Feinfold's claims by a group of behavioral and medical scientists. Among the cliams made by Feingold was that, when treated with the salicylate and…

Comments on Joseph's review of the genetics of attention deficit disorder, demonstrating errors of scientific logic and oversight of relevant research in Joseph's argument. Argues for the validity of twin studies in supporting a genetic link for ADHD and for the complementary role of nature and nurture in the etiology of the disorder. (JPB)

Answers the most important criticisms by Faraone and Biederman in their critique of Joseph's analysis of evidence supporting a genetic basis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Argues that possible genetic and environmental influences in ADHD twin studies are confounded, obscuring inferences about genetic factors. (JPB)

Examines the empirical evidence cited in favor of the operation of genetic factors in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and argues that the evidence does not support a role for genetic factors in the disorder. Discusses problems compromising family, twin, and adoption studies. (JPB)

Teacher behaviors toward hyperactive boys on methylphenidate (ritalin), toward hyperactive boys on placebo, and toward normal comparison peers were compared. Teachers were more intense and controlling toward hyperactive boys on placebo, but no differences emerged between comparison and medicated groups. Need for broader monitoring of treatment…

The process of designing and conducting clinical studies of the effects of psychotropic drugs is described and some problems common to these clinical studies and clinical diagnosis are enumerated. (MV)

Reviews literature that describes the rational and nonrational factors sustaining the myth that stimulant medication is ineffective for hyperactive adolescents. Discusses methodological problems and factors--such as increasing size, misbehavior and misattribution, and perceived relationship to drug abuse--that influence treatment decisions. (JAC)

Compares three treatment modalities for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) including stimulant treatments, primarily methylphenidate; behavioral treatments, including contingency management and parent training; and cognitive-behavioral or self-regulation therapies. Discusses methodological quandaries, constricted focus, and…

Determining whether stimulant medication improves learning or long-term academic achievement in children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder involves consideration of (1) the prescription of higher than optimal doses, and (2) overinclusive treatment involving adverse responders. A study designed to overcome these theoretical deficiencies…