M Biaggio | PubMed Health

PubMed2000

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder: differential diagnosis in childhood sexual abuse.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are the most commonly diagnosed disorders in sexually abused children (SAC). There is a high degree of symptom overlap and comorbidity between these disorders, and differential diagnosis can be confusing. Current diagnostic criteria do not include PTSD as a differential diagnosis for ADHD, nor do existing assessment guidelines address these diagnostic similarities. This may have serious implications for SAC. This literature review describes the psychological impact of child sexual abuse and possible consequences for misdiagnosing ADHD in SAC. A comparison of criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (American Psychiatric Association, 1994) criteria for ADHD and PTSD is presented, and commonalities are discussed. On the basis of this comparison, recommendations are made for improving clinical decision-making and for facilitating differential diagnosis. Routine inquiry about traumatic experiences in children presenting with ADHD symptoms is suggested to increase accuracy in differential diagnosis.

Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity↗

PubMed1998

Obstacles to addressing professional misconduct.

The Ethical Principles exhort psychologists "to encourage ethical behavior by students, supervisees, employees, and colleagues, as appropriate" (American Psychological Association, 1992, p. 1599). In spite of a clear directive to attempt resolution of unethical conduct by colleagues, research indicates that satisfactory resolution or actual reporting of misconduct is infrequent. This paper will address some of the forces that discourage psychologists from dealing responsibly and appropriately with professional misconduct by colleagues. The goals of this paper are to promote understanding of factors that interfere with the effective resolution of ethical misconduct, to identify possible signs of reluctance to address misconduct, and to propose strategies to combat those forces that keep us in silent collusion with colleagues who engage in unethical practices. A flowchart of steps for addressing possible misconduct by a colleague is provided, and educational, organizational, and professional considerations are discussed.

Awareness↗