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PubMed · 8955426

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: an evolutionary perspective.

J F Shelley-Tremblay·L A Rosén
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Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects a significant portion of the population--some 5% of all school-aged children--and approximately half of these individuals continue to show the full disorder in adulthood. Recent studies point to a strong genetic component in the etiology of this disorder. Questions have been raised as to the relatively high prevalence of this condition in the population, given its apparent maladaptive nature in present-day society. In this article, we review and discuss three theories regarding the possible adaptive function of ADHD: the hunter, fighter, and wader theories. Although no theory entirely explains the occurrence of ADHD, it is worthwhile to note that, at least historically, ADHD may have served an adaptive function and may have been selected by the environment for survival.

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Attention Deficit Disorder with HyperactivityBiological EvolutionFrontal LobeHumansLimbic SystemJournal ArticleReview

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BibTeXRIS

J F Shelley-Tremblay, L A Rosén. 1996. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: an evolutionary perspective.. https://doi.org/10.1080/00221325.1996.9914877

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Long-term methylphenidate therapy in children with comorbid attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and chronic multiple tic disorder.

BACKGROUND: This study examined changes in attention-deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) behaviors and motor and vocal tics during long-term treatment with methylphenidate. METHODS: Thirty-four prepubertal children with ADHD and chronic multiple tic disorder (who had participated in an 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled methylphenidate evaluation) were evaluated at 6-month intervals for 2 years as part of a prospective, nonblind, follow-up study. Treatment effects were assessed using direct observations of child behavior in a simulated (clinic-based) classroom and behavior rating scales completed by parents and physician. Videotapes of the simulated classroom were scored by coders who were blind to treatment status. RESULTS: There was no evidence (group data) that motor tics or vocal tics changed in frequency or severity during maintenance therapy compared with diagnostic or initial double-blind placebo evaluations. Behavioral improvements demonstrated during the acute drug trial were maintained during follow-up. There was no evidence (group data) of clinically significant adverse drug effects on cardiovascular function or growth at the end of 2 years of treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term treatment with methylphenidate seems to be safe and effective for the management of ADHD behaviors in many (but not necessarily all) children with mild to moderate tic disorder. Nevertheless, careful clinical monitoring is mandatory to rule out the possibility of drug-induced tic exacerbation in individual patients.

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