ADHD vs. ADD: What Are the Differences?

People often confuse ADHD with ADD, and vice versa. However, there are distinct differences between these two conditions. The professionals at Geo Psychological Testing are here to explain these differences:

 

ADHD

ADHD is often characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. People with ADHD are often unorganized, struggle to focus, and daydream frequently. Their lack of impulse control may cause them to interrupt others who are speaking or act quickly before considering long-term effects or consequences. People with ADHD fidget constantly using repetitive movements, like tapping or squirming.

Like with any condition, ADHD varies in severity from person to person. For this reason, there are several types of ADHD:

• ADHD predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
• ADHD predominantly inattentive
• ADHD combination

 

ADD

“ADD” was a term once used to describe what is now referred to as ADHD. In recent years, revisions have been made to diagnostic materials and ADD is now simply a form of ADHD. ADD is characterized specifically by inattention (also known as Inattentive ADHD or ADHD predominantly inattentive). People with ADD are not usually hyper or impulsive.

When diagnosing ADD, one must meet six of the following symptoms (as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V or DSM-V):

• Inattention to detail/makes careless mistakes
• Cannot focus on tasks for long periods of time
• Does not appear to listen when spoken to directly
• Unable to complete projects or follow directions
• Unable to organize activities and tasks
• Avoids activities that require extensive mental effort
• Loses things easily
• Easily distracted by external stimuli
• Often forgetful during the day-to-day

 

At Geo Psychological Testing, our professionals specialize in ADHD and ADD Testing and Evaluations. Geo-Anna Q. Hirshenbaum PhD, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, provides extensive testing for children and adults in The Woodlands, Texas. Through careful psychological analysis, Dr. Hirshenbaum’s assessment process allows for diagnostic clarity and individualized recommendations to move forward in pinpointing issues of distress, planning effective treatment, and reaching personal goals. Interested in learning more? Contact us today!

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