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Childhood Hyperactivity

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 January 2018

E. A. Taylor
E. A. Taylor*
Affiliation:
Reader in Developmental Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, Bethlem Royal and Maudsley Hospitals, London
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Extract

Severe degrees of inattentive and restless behaviour in childhood are a risk factor for later psychological disorders. They have many causes, but a pattern of severe and pervasive hyperactivity with poor concentration in the absence of affective or psychotic disorders should be recognised as a hyperkinetic syndrome. The syndrome is often associated with developmental delays in abilities such as language and motor control. Powerful short-term treatments are available, but long-term ways of promoting normal personality development need more research.

Type
Review Article
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 149 , Issue 5 , November 1986 , pp. 562 - 573
Copyright
Copyright © 1986 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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