ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) has been the universal name given to the condition in which children and adults have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) but ADD implies there is no hyperactive or impulsive portion of the disorder.
Currently, ADHD has become the more common name given to describe attention disorders. ADD and ADHD are frequently used interchangeably for people with both types of the disorder, whether they have the impulsive and energetic (hyperactive) symptoms or not.
According to Merck Manual, the two most significant changes in the definition and classification of ADHD by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) are that ADHD extends beyond childhood, into adulthood and that there is a predominantly inattentive type of ADHD. Both of these reclassifications have been noted by the APA’s Manual the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
Similarities of ADHD and ADD
The terms ADHD and ADD are like two animals in the same species but with slightly different characteristics, they are like two big cats, but one is a tiger and the other is a lion. Both have many of the same traits, but there are slightly different things about each.
The similar symptoms of ADD and ADHD are related to focus and inattention. A person who is diagnosed strictly as ADD are referred to as having predominantly inattentive type of ADHD. They usually have trouble :
- paying attention
- finishing tasks
- following directions
- appearing forgetful
- frequently losing things
- frequent lateness
People with "plain" ADD are usually not considered hyperactive. More commonly now, instead of a diagnosis of ADD, this type of ADHD is classified as predominantly inattentive ADHD. People with Inattentive ADHD appear:
- slow
- daydream a lot
- sometimes shy
- have trouble organizing thoughts and activities
ADHD, Hyperactivity and Impulsive
However the main difference in classification comes down to the hyperactivity and impulsiveness of the person with ADHD. Adults and children with Hyper or Impulsive ADHD may or may not have trouble with attention and focus. This type of ADHD includes:
- fidgeting
- restlessness
- acting or speaking "without thinking"
- interrupting
- excessive talking
- can't wait for their turn
- can't sit in one place long
- pacing
- always active
So Which is It, ADD or ADHD?
There are still many misconceptions about Attention Deficit Disorders. Often, children and adults are mislabled as unmotivated, scatterbrained, hyper or lazy when in truth, they have an undiagnosed form of ADHD. An accurate diagnosis of the right type of ADHD, either inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive, is important for treatment. It is advisable to seek a physician with a clear understanding as to the types of ADHD and the most current medications and treatment options available.
Elizabeth Richards - Elizabeth Richards has published almost 200 articles for Suite101 since 2007 as a Contributing and Feature Writer.
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