Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder 59
disorders, and other comorbid diagnoses. Among individuals who are nonverbal or have
language deficits, observable si gns such as changes in sleep or  eating and increases in chal-
lenging behavior should trigger an evaluation fo r anxiety or depression. Specific learning dif-
ficulties (literacy and numeracy ) are common, as is developm ental coordination disorder.
Medical conditions commonly associated with autism spectrum disorder should be noted
under the “associated with a known medical/ge netic or environmental/acquired condition”
specifier. Such medical conditions include epilepsy, sleep proble ms, and constipation.
Avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder is a fairly frequent presenting feature of autism
spectrum disorder, and extreme and na rrow food preferences may persist. 
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity 
Disorder
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria  
A. A persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with
functioning or development, as characterized by (1) and/or (2):
1.Inattention:  Six (or more) of the following symptoms have persisted for at least
6 months to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and that nega-
tively impacts directly on social and academic/occupational activities:
Note:  The symptoms are not solely a manifestation of oppositional behavior, defi-
ance, hostility, or failure to understand tasks or instructions. For older adolescents
and adults (age 17 and older), at least five symptoms are required.
a. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in
schoolwork, at work, or during other activities (e.g., overlooks or misses details,
work is inaccurate).