Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder: differential diagnosis in childhood sexual abuse.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are the most commonly diagnosed disorders in sexually abused children (SAC). There is a high degree of symptom overlap and comorbidity between these disorders, and differential diagnosis can be confusing. Current diagnostic criteria do not include PTSD as a differential diagnosis for ADHD, nor do existing assessment guidelines address these diagnostic similarities.

Obstacles to addressing professional misconduct.

The Ethical Principles exhort psychologists "to encourage ethical behavior by students, supervisees, employees, and colleagues, as appropriate" (American Psychological Association, 1992, p. 1599). In spite of a clear directive to attempt resolution of unethical conduct by colleagues, research indicates that satisfactory resolution or actual reporting of misconduct is infrequent.