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Abstract

The aim of this paper is to review evidence of genetic factors in the aetiology
of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The review examines our
current understanding of ADHD, including behavioural criteria, development, and
cognition. It is concluded that there are a number of limitations in our current
understanding of ADHD, stemming from high levels of co-morbidity, qualitative
differences among subtypes, variable research methodology and a heavy reliance on a
top down approach to research. The research literature contains a large amount of
variation in measurement associated with defining ADHD as a behavioural phenotype,
hampering genetic research. It is concluded that there is strong evidence supporting a
genetic component to ADHD. Family, twin and molecular studies suggest ADHD
may be part of some continuum, with a number of disorders having common genetic
vulnerability, and that many genes interacting with environmental variables may be
involved. It is suggested that future research should be longitudinal and family based
in order to link behavioural, cognitive and genetic characteristics of ADHD as they
emerge across the lifespan, and thereby inform our understanding of ADHD on a
number of levels.

Item Type:	Thesis - Coursework Master
Authors/Creators:	Langbein, A
Keywords:	Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
Copyright Holders:	The Author
Copyright Information:	Copyright 1999 the Author - The University is continuing to endeavour to trace the copyright owner(s) and in the meantime this item has been reproduced here in good faith. We would be pleased to hear from the copyright owner(s).
Additional Information:	Thesis (M.Psych.)--University of Tasmania, 2000. Includes bibliographical references
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