Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder risk factors
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Kiran Singh, M.D. [2], Haleigh Williams, B.S.
Overview
Overview
Common risk factors in the development of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are child abuse, infections of the central nervous system, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injury.
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Common risk factors in the development of ADHD are:[1][2]
- Alcohol exposure in utero
- Brain injury
- Child abuse
- Epilepsy
- First-degree biological relative of individuals with ADHD
- Genetic predilection
- Infections of the central nervous system (e.g., encephalitis)
- Low birth weight (less than 1,500 grams)
- Male gender
- Metabolic abnormalities
- Multiple foster placements
- Neglect
- Neurotoxin exposure in utero or during youth (e.g., lead)
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Pessimistic outlook
- Reduced behavioral inhibition
- Sleep disorders
- Smoking during pregnancy
- Visual and hearing impairments
References
References
- ↑ Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5. Washington, D.C: American Psychiatric Association. 2013. ISBN 0890425558.
- ↑ National Institute of Mental Health (NIH). (2016). “Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.”
Looking for the patient version?
© 2026 MyEClinic – IFTM Institut für Telematik in der Medizin GmbH