Differences Between ADD and ADHD

By Dawn M. Olsen

Today, we see children and adults dealing with disorders known as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). For the individual living with either chronic neurobiological disorder, life can be more than challenging. The confusion comes into play when the two terms (ADD and ADHD) are interchanged. While there are similarities, each represents something unique and its own set of obstacles. In this article, we will address the differences between ADD and ADHD to help you better understand each.

Again, while there are distinct differences between ADD and ADHD, you will often hear the terms "ADD" and "ADHD" used to refer to one or both. Because of so many similarities, many people will simply use "ADD" as a means of describing both, which only leads to additional problems. Because the two disorders share many of the same symptoms and problems, separating them into two unique disorders and obtaining a confirmed diagnosis can be difficult.

As you will see below, there are more differences between ADD and ADHD than you might think but even so, ADHD has the "H" factor of hyperactivity. Because the hyperactivity is seen sooner by physical and emotional displays or outbursts, ADHD is usually diagnosed much quicker. For the person with ADD, this adds to the frustration of often seeing a multitude of doctors and being given many unneeded prescription drugs all in trying to determine the cause for the problem.

First, we want to address the similarities of the two disorders and then we will outline the distinct differences between ADD and ADHD.

• Difficulty with completing tasks
• Difficulty with relationships
• Easily distracted
• Emotional problems
• Forgetfulness
• Frequently forgetting terms
• Poor academic performance
• Lack of organizational skills

Now, it is important to understand that if a child or adult is diagnosed with ADHD that does not automatically mean the condition is worse than what the person with ADD is experiencing. In fact, both ADD and ADHD create problems specific to being emotionally withdrawn, lacking motivation, often drifting off, and dealing with shyness although the person with ADHD will more commonly have behavioral problems that the person with ADD does not have.

Now that you know the similarities between the two disorders, we want to address the primary differences between ADD and ADHD.

ADD

With ADD, males and females, children and adults can develop this disorder although new studies are now suggesting boys have it more than girls do. Just remember that when it comes to the differences between ADD and ADHD, a very fine line separates the two, again making it difficult to diagnose and sometimes, treat. The following characteristics are specific to ADD.

• Bonds well with people but does not attract friends
• Docile
• Honors another person's boundaries
• Modest
• Obedient
• Overly polite
• Shy
• Sluggish
• Socially withdrawn
• Under-assertive

ADHD

When it comes to differences between ADD and ADHD, for ADHD, you would add in the factor of hyperactive behavior. That means the person with ADHD would have the common characteristics as seen above for ADD but in addition, would battle the following symptoms.

• Attracts friends but does not bond easily
• Bossy
• Hyperactivity
• Impulsiveness
• Intrusiveness
• Irritating
• Rebellion
• Show-off or egotistical

As you look at the differences between ADD and ADHD, just remind yourself that the key in both cases is early diagnosis so the proper treatment can be provided. Whether on medication or undergoing some type of therapy, the right type of treatment can give a child or adult with ADD or ADHD a new lease on life.

About the Author:

Dawn M. Olsen is an Advocate for Better Children's Health through Education, Recipe Developer, Soy Food Enthusiast and the Contributor to "ADD A to Z - Your Guide to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder" available online now at www.addatoz.com. Find out more about how to deal with adhd in children now.

Article courtesy of www.goarticles.com.