ADD vs ADHD

ADD or attention deficit disorder is a general term frequently used to describe individuals that have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder without the hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. The terms are often used interchangeably for both those who do and those who do not have symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsiveness.

ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is the official name used by the American Psychiatric Association and encompasses hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behaviors.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) actually includes three different types of ADHD.

ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Type

Symptoms are primarily related to inattention. Individual does not display significant hyperactive/impulsive behaviors.

Most people refer to the “Predominantly Inattentive Type” of ADHD simply as ADD. These individuals may have trouble paying attention, become easily distracted, have difficulty finishing tasks, may appear forgetful and careless, have difficulty following directions, may frequently lose things, and often appear disorganized.

ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

Symptoms are primarily related to hyperactivity and impulsivity. Individual does not display significant attention problems.

Individuals with the Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type of ADHD may appear restless, fidgety, and impulsive. They “act before thinking” and often “speak before thinking” by blurting out and interrupting others. People with these hyperactive/impulsive behaviors may play and interact loudly. They have difficulty staying in their seat, talk excessively, and have trouble waiting turns. They may seem to be perpetually “on the go.”

ADHD, Combined Type

Individual displays both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.

Though the symptoms displayed for the three types of ADHD are different, the treatment approaches are the same.

_Source:

American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition, Text Revision) DSM-IV Washington, D.C. 2000.