Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: assessment and treatment of children from culturally different groups.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is now thought to affect from 3 to 7% of school-age children. Children with ADHD will often experience serious problems functioning in the school environment. More and more children from culturally diverse groups are being diagnosed as having ADHD. Research shows that culture can directly affect both assessment and treatment of ADHD. This article provides an overview of the effects of cultural differences on the assessment and treatment of ADHD. Children from diverse cultural groups may be overidentified as having ADHD. Cultural difference may also have an impact on access to treatment and compliance with treatment programs. Recommendations for practitioners are included.