Phil interviews Alison Poulton, Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre Nepean, about her article exploring what causes ADHD – what we know, don’t know, and suspect.

 ADHD is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder, affecting 8–10% of children and up to 5% of adults. It’s diagnosed through behavioural criteria, not genetic or brain tests, and symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity must significantly impair daily life.

Poulton explains the complexities of diagnosis, gender differences (with girls often underdiagnosed), the strong genetic component, and how environment and parenting also play a role.

ADHD is now seen as a polygenic condition with thousands of small genetic influences, shaped further by individual circumstances.

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