Objective: To examine directly the extent to which ICD-10 hyperkinetic disorder and DSM-IV attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) identify the same children with the same difficulties.
Method: Participants were children referred for symptoms of overactivity, inattention, and impulsivity, and a normal control group. Diagnostic criteria for ICD-10 hyperkinetic disorder and DSM-IV ADHD were applied retrospectively. Four groups were identified: hyperkinetic disorder and ADHD (n = 21), ADHD only (n = 22), clinic control (n = 15), and normal control (n = 19). The groups were compared on measures reflecting the central characteristics of ADHD, neurodevelopmental functioning, academic and cognitive functioning, and the presence of conduct problems.
Results: There is some evidence of increased symptom severity in the combined diagnostic group. Few differences emerged on measures of neurodevelopmental, academic, and cognitive functioning. Rates of conduct disturbance were similar in both ADHD groups.
Conclusions: DSM-IV criteria identify a broader group of children than those identified by ICD-10. However, there is substantial overlap between the groups formed with these different criteria.