Understanding the Genetics of ADHD

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders. Recently, it has been a source of debate and criticism in the media due to the increase in diagnoses. Despite the controversies surrounding overdiagnosis, treatment, and the disorder itself, one clear thing is that there is a genetic component to ADHD. In understanding ADHD as a whole, the discussion must start with the history and symptoms of the disorder, then focus on heritability, searching for a causal gene, and finally, analyzing possible genes of interest.