ADD vs ADHD

ADD vs ADHD: Is there a difference between the two disorders? While there are differences between ADD and ADHD, the terms are often interchangeable for the sake of simplicity.

Specifically, ADD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder and ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The term ADD was used first, starting in 1980. In 1994, however, the American Psychiatric Association expanded the terminology as a result of expanded research and knowledge (American Psychiatric Association, 2008).

The American Psychiatric Association lists three main types of Attention Deficit Disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV), which is used by physicians in the diagnostic process. These three subtypes are based upon the symptoms: Inattentive Type, Hyperactive-Impulsive Type, or Combined Type. (See a complete list of ADHD symptoms.)

Technically speaking, ADHD is Attention Deficit Disorder with hyperactivity. It is important to note that not all sufferers of ADHD exhibit all three subtypes. For example, girls with the condition typically exhibit symptoms of inattention and are less likely to exhibit symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsive behavior.

However, in the end, most people simply use the term they prefer but ADHD is the current current term for most conditions.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, ADHD vs ADD matters little as the terms are generally interchangeable and generally understood by the general public. It may seem awkward to explain to someone “My son was diagnosed with ADHD with predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive type characteristics.” As a result, for most folks is ofter easier to simply state “My son has ADD.”

Get The Free Newsletter!

Exit ADD vs ADHD And Return To ADD Treatment Home Page