Attention disorders can be confusing, especially when discussing ADD and ADHD. While related, they are not exactly the same. Understanding the differences is important for diagnosis and treatment.
Key Differences Between ADD and ADHD
| Feature | ADD | ADHD |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Attention Deficit Disorder | Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder |
| Symptoms | Inattention, difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, disorganization | Inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, difficulty staying still or controlling behavior |
| Hyperactivity | Not typically present | Present, often noticeable |
| Terminology | Older term; now considered a subtype of ADHD | Current medical term used by clinicians |
| Diagnosis | Part of ADHD diagnosis as “predominantly inattentive type” | Includes all types: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined type |
ADD
ADD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder. It is an older term used to describe individuals who have trouble focusing, paying attention, or staying on task, without significant hyperactivity.
ADHD
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is the current medical term that includes both inattentive symptoms and hyperactive or impulsive behaviors. ADHD is now the preferred term in clinical practice, and ADD is considered a subtype of ADHD.
Conclusion: ADD is essentially a subtype of ADHD, characterized by inattentive symptoms without hyperactivity. Understanding the distinction helps with proper diagnosis and treatment planning.
