What is The Difference Between ADHD and ADD?

As the reported number of cases of learning disorders rises, parents increasingly ask the question, what is the difference between ADHD and ADD. Before that question can be answered, it is necessary to look at the history of both disorders.

History of ADD and ADHD

ADD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Both disorders affect children as well as adults. However, ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in children while ADD is more often diagnosed in adults.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anywhere from three to five percent of children have ADHD, with some estimates being upwards of eight to ten percent.

Children diagnosed with ADD or ADHD often have trouble concentrating and paying attention for extended periods of time. Following directions tends to be difficult and they become bored and frustrated with certain tasks. Physical challenges include impulsivity and difficulty sitting still. These behaviors mark children with both disorders but are more severely displayed with children with ADHD. ADD and ADHD both cause learning and concentration problems at school and home. They pose future issues with factors such as organization and time management. Theses challenges tend to cause self-esteem problems if the disorders are not dealt with properly.

Is ADHD and ADD the Same Disorder?

Though the terms ADD and ADHD are often used to refer to the same disorder, there are some distinguishing characteristics for each. The largest difference is that ADHD includes hyperactivity and impulsivity, while the predominant feature of ADD is passive inattention.

Traits of ADD:

The most noticeable trait of a child with ADD is inattentiveness. Characteristics such as being easily distracted, unable to complete tasks for follow directions completely, propensity for daydreaming or zoning out during conversations, forgetfulness, disorganization, and often losing things are most common in children with ADD.

Traits of ADHD:

The two major symptoms for a child with ADHD are hyperactivity and impulsivity. Hyperactive tendencies include fidgeting, squirming, or bouncing when seated. Children with ADHD have trouble remaining in their seat at school. It is hard for them to play quietly both alone and with others. They seem to always be in motion. They are restless and talk nonstop.

Impulsivity manifests itself in a child exhibiting traits such as difficulty waiting his or her turn, interrupting others in conversations, blurting out answers to questions, and appearing to not think before acting.

ADHD Types:

The predominantly inattentive type of ADHD is so similar in nature to ADD that they are often used synonymously. A child with this type does not usually exhibit hyperactive or impulsive behaviors. He or she has a difficult time paying attention, following directions, and completing tasks. This child is easily distracted and forgetful. He or she appears careless due to frequently losing or misplacing things.

Often a child with this type of ADHD behaves in a manner opposite to a hyperactive child. He or she may often act lazy or spacey and is typically slower in responding and processing information.

Children with the predominantly hyperactive and impulsive type of ADHD are much easier to spot. They do not necessarily have problems paying attention. However, they are always fidgeting and moving. Their actions and words seem to precede their thoughts. They are loud and talkative.

The last type of ADHD is the combined type. Children with this form have all three characteristics of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness.

Causes of ADHD

The cause of ADHD remains unknown, however, research continues to grow and develop in the areas of neurology and behavior. Several possible contributing factors include heredity, chemical imbalances, head trauma, and brain activity variations.

Often, there are multiple cases of ADHD reported within the same family, suggesting a genetic link. Imbalances of neurotransmitters may lead to ADHD due to disrupted communication within the sections of the brain. The parts of the brain that control the ability to sustain attention are less active in children with ADHD. Additionally, there have been reported instances of children who have experienced head injuries developing behavioral problems similar to ADHD.

Diagnosis of ADHD

ADHD requires a medical diagnosis completed through a neurological laboratory test. The evaluation is often completed by a child psychiatrist, psychologist, or pediatrician based on behavior traits noted by the child’s parents and teachers. These tests can be rather subjective, however. There are also computerized tests that can measure a child’s ability to sustain attentiveness.

Treatments for ADHD

While ADHD cannot be prevented or cured, there are a number of effective treatments that can help children learn to focus and sustain attention while minimizing disruptive behaviors. Early detection and the cooperative efforts of the parents and teachers can go a long way in aiding the success of the child.

Some children respond to stimulants or antidepressants. As with all medications, there are potential side effects to consider. Psychosocial therapies are another option and include special education, behavior modification, social skills training, and behavioral counseling.