The Three Kinds of ADD/ADHD

What kind of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder does your child (or do you) have?

Have you ever been asked that question? Many individuals don't realize that the medical community actually categorizes this disorde into three types.

In the United States, for example, the American Psychiatric Association's DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) divide attention deficit hyperactivity disorder into three distinct diagnoses, defined by the predominant symptom.

The first type of ADHD is called "predominantly inattentive type." In this variety, the child or adult experiences difficulty in either organizing a task or completing the task. He also may find it difficult to follow instructions as well as to maintain interest in and carry on a conversation.

The second variety of ADD/ADHD is labeled "predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type." This version of the disorder displays itself in a lack of ability to keep still. The person who has this variety not only finds it difficult not to fidget or move around seemingly for no reason, but he also talks quite a bit.

The person affected with this version may interrupt another's speech or speak at times that are considered inappropriate.

In a smaller child, this disorder could be displayed through his continually jumping, running, or even inappropriate climbing. Restlessness is also a sign of this kind of ADD/ADHD as is impulsivity.

Children with this type of ADHD are usually the ones who experience more accidents or injuries than other individuals.

In older teens or adults, this 'hyperactivity' may lead to inner restlessness, as well as impulsivity which can have serious consequences. These can include quitting jobs, driving too fast, or ending relationships.

The third category of ADHD the American Psychiatric Association recognizes is the "combined type." In this version, the symptoms are a mixture of both the predominantly inattentive and the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive kinds of ADD/ADHD.

In other words, if both the inattention and hyperactive impulsivity are demonstrated equally by these individuals they are considered to have the "combined" version of the disorder.

One of the issues in classification of ADD and ADHD is that the name has chaged so many times over the years that it has caused confusion. The official term for this disorder is: AD/HD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). That said, many people still use the term ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) to refer to what is officially known as: ADHD predominantly inattentive type.

If you aren't sure which type of ADHD that you or your child has, ask your doctor or health care professional.