Anticipatory Guidance for Children and Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder that often presents in early childhood and, for most people, persists into adult-hood. The symptom presentation and impact on functioning often evolve over time as children reach the developmental stages of childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Children with ADHD are at risk of comorbid disorders, as well as potential cumulative adverse outcomes, if their ADHD is not adequately or appropriately treated in a timely manner. Pediatricians play a unique and critical role in educating, guiding, treating, and empowering children with ADHD and their families across the pediatric lifespan. Their role extends beyond pharmacological treatment of ADHD to ensuring favorable outcomes in social, academic, emotional, and behavioral functioning by providing anticipatory guidance and facilitating conversations that promote understanding of their child’s condition.