The author reviews pathological entities which may lead to hyperactivity in children. Certain points which aid in the differential diagnosis are indicated. Minimal brain damage, developmental hyperactivity, relational deprivation, anxiety neurosis, hypomanic reaction, psychosis and pre-psychosis, situational reactions and indequate parental attitudes are all discussed. At the end of each section,
... [Show full abstract] as well as at the end of the article, the author addresses herself to the therapeutic problems posed by the symptom of hyperactivity, depending on its underlying pathology.