Which statement about the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children is true?

Introduction / Context:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity. It is commonly diagnosed in childhood but can continue into adulthood. This question asks which statement about patterns of ADHD diagnosis is accurate, focusing on gender differences and common misconceptions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

ADHD can occur in both boys and girls.
Diagnosis rates do not perfectly reflect the true prevalence, but they show patterns.
We rely on widely accepted trends in clinical and epidemiological studies.

Concept / Approach:
Research and clinical experience show that boys are diagnosed with ADHD more often than girls in school settings. This may be partly because boys more frequently display noticeable hyperactive or disruptive behaviors that draw attention from teachers and parents. Girls, on the other hand, may show more inattentive symptoms that can be overlooked. The other statements in the question exaggerate or misrepresent the data about ADHD prevalence and outcomes.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that ADHD occurs in both sexes but has higher diagnostic rates among boys. Step 2: Evaluate the idea that most children fully outgrow all symptoms; many continue to have some symptoms into adulthood, although they may learn coping strategies. Step 3: Assess the claim that 20 percent of school-age children have ADHD; this is much higher than typical prevalence estimates. Step 4: Consider whether racial minority status alone is a reliable predictor; diagnosis is influenced by access to care and bias, not simply by race. Step 5: Conclude that the statement about boys being more likely to be diagnosed is the best supported by evidence.

Verification / Alternative check:
Epidemiological surveys generally report that ADHD affects a smaller percentage of children than 20 percent, and they highlight higher recorded rates in boys than in girls. Clinical guidelines also note that ADHD can persist into adulthood for a significant proportion of patients, which contradicts the idea that most children completely outgrow it.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Most children outgrow ADHD: While some children improve, many still experience symptoms and functional impacts in adolescence and adulthood.
Twenty percent prevalence: This figure is unrealistically high compared to typical estimates from large studies.
Racial minority status as predictor: This is not a simple or reliable predictor and raises concerns about bias; it is not a scientifically correct statement as written.

Common Pitfalls:
People may mistakenly believe ADHD is only a childhood problem or that it is extremely common. There are also misconceptions that it is linked directly to race rather than to complex social and medical factors. Understanding that diagnostic patterns favor boys helps highlight the need to recognize ADHD in girls as well, who might be underdiagnosed.

Final Answer:
The accurate statement is that boys are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls in typical school and clinical settings.