The research evidence for the external validity of Attention Deficit Disorder without Hyperactivity as separate from Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity is examined. The history of the association between these two diagnoses is summarized, as is the clinical significance of examining this issue. Research on the behavioral characteristics, family history, psychiatric comorbidity, test performance, treatment response, physiological and neuroanatomical correlates of these two groups is reviewed. It is concluded that the evidence supporting the external validity of Attention Deficit Disorder without Hyperactivity as a distinct clinical entity is lacking, although psychophysiological research is emerging as a promising area of research in this regard.
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