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One of the most important developments in paediatrics over the past decade has been the interest in the hyperactive or overactive child. Striking differences have been noted in the frequency of the diagnosis between North America and Europe. To date, however, there has been a serious lack of any pertinent research data. This volume from the eminent Maudsley team discusses overactivity and attention deficit, and considers how much overactivity in childhood can be assigned a pathological basis and how much represents normal variation. When the syndrome has been redefined, the authors move on and consider how it can be treated. Altogether, it is a valuable volume for all who work with children who have difficulties in school.