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ADHD Symptoms With Personality Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inattention and hyperactive impulsive behavior. Most children are diagnosed with the disorder around the age of 7, although some can exhibit symptoms as early as infancy. Those who carry the disorder into adolescence and adulthood often suffer with personality disorders.

  1. Significance

    • The National Institute of Health published the findings of several studies conducted by numerous psychiatric doctors on Sept. 1, 2009, that concluded that children diagnosed with childhood ADHD are at an increased risk for personality disorders, especially in their teen years.

    Considerations

    • The studies showed the prevalence toward several different types of personality disorders. These include borderline disorders, anti-social disorders, avoidance disorders and narcissist disorders.

    Effects

    • Children with persistent ADHD are at greater risk for antisocial and paranoid personality disorders compared to children where ADHD remitted. A higher risk for the other personality disorders has not been established.

    Features

    • Long studies of children with ADHD demonstrate that the disorder quite frequently carries and persists into adulthood. ADHD is associated with significant lifelong functional impairment and portends the risk for personality disorders in teens and adults.

    Identification

    • Close to 60 percent of children with ADHD develop conduct disorders and go on to develop antisocial personality disorders. Neurological differences exist in the brains of those with ADHD, and those who develop the personality disorders. People afflicted with ADHD and personality disorders lack the ability to control impulsiveness and certain behaviors. This suggests that the neurological problem may be the same for ADHD and personality disorders, according to the findings published in a paper for Bryn Mawr College.

    Potential

    • Personality disorders are the most difficult psychological disorders to treat. Medications are frequently used, and lithium appears to be the most effective. Behavior modification, interventions and family assistance are also helpful.

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