The Difference Between ADHD and ADD

The terms ADD and ADHD have been used interchangeably. However, the updated term, according to the DSM IV, is ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the term used in the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) diagnostic criteria. ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) with or without hyperactivity is the older term from the DSM-IIIR.

Common symptoms of ADHD (inattentive type):

• Often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
• Often difficulty following through on instructions from others
• Difficulty sustaining attention
• Often does not seem to listen to what is being said
• Tendency to lose things necessary for tasks or activities
• Difficulty organizing goal-directed activities
• Often shifts from one uncompleted activity to another

Some research shows that children with hyperactive-impulsive symptoms tend to have more behavioral problems and conduct disorder, while children with the inattentive type of ADHD have a higher risk of co-morbid depression or anxiety disorders.

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