Risk factors and genetic bases: The case of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered to be the most frequent mental disorder in childhood. Although its diagnosis in the most utilized manual of psychiatry in the world today - the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5) - is based on behaviors of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, numerous attempts to describe the biological bases of the disorder can be found, for the purposes of diagnosis and also as risk markers. In this paper, we will critically analyze the validity of studies associated with the search for genetic markers of ADHD. First, a characterization of ADHD by the DSM-5 manual is presented. Subsequently, the link between ADHD and risk factors and genetic markers is developed. Finally, some conclusions are presented which highlight simplifications and omissions that could have significant consequences.