Difference Between ADD and ADHD

ADHD info is full of resources about what is ADHD, ADHD characteristics…but what about ADD?

The two disorders have some similarities, but there is a difference between them. Many children may have attention problems, but may not be hyperactive. Not all require ADHD interventions.

ADD without hyperactivity and ADHD inattentive type are two completely different disorders.

• ADD has one dimension: inattention. Distractibility, disorganization, not listening, daydreaming, lethargic…these are the students teachers will say never pay attention.


• ADHD has two dimensions: Everything above PLUS impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the students who just cannot seem to settle down.

The main behavioral difference that teachers will see is that ADHD students are "driven by a motor."

The ADD child will seem to be very lethargic and "spacey."

Children with both types of ADD have an attentional bias towards novelty. Since most academic problems come from repetitive tasks, it is important to add novelty instead of a lot of repetition.

So, what is the difference between ADD and ADHD that teachers see in the classroom?

ADHD Symptoms in the Classroom

1. Fails to give close attention to details; makes careless mistakes
2. Does not seem to listen when directly spoken to
3. Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
4. Loses items necessary for tasks or activities
5. Easily distracted by outside stimuli
6. Does not follow instructions and fails to finish school work

Hyperactivity

1. Fidgets excessively with hands and feet
2. Often leaves seat without permission
3. Talks excessively
4. Is always "on the go"
5. Runs, climbs, jumps in non-appropriate settings and situations (like crawling on the floor, rolling under desks or jumping on classmates in line)

Impulsivity

1. Blurts out answers without waiting for questions to be completed
2. Interrupts games and conversations without being invited
3. Cannot wait for a turn

Parents May Also Report:

• Resistance to routines like teeth brushing, getting dressed, etc.
• Gets easily upset or frustrated
• Immature social interactions; few friends
• Self-centered
• Easily bored at home, unless it is a video game or a movie

ADHD intervention at school is in the form of a behavior intervention plan and an adjustment in the classroom teaching and/or management style if necessary.

Signs of ADD

1. Excessive daydreaming
2. Frequent staring
3. Deficient on measures of focused attention
4. Socially uninvolved or reluctant
5. Rarely oppositional or aggressive
6. Not impulsive
7. High incidence of LD and anxiety in the family

Medication Difference Between ADD and ADHD?

Students with ADD respond very modestly to medication, about 65%. ADHD however, has a 90% response rate to medication.


Medication for attention deficit disorder is not always the answer.

Many parents who start their ADD child on medication will discontinue it because the gains appear to be minimal.

ADHD students will most certainly display a difference in behaviors on the correct medication under a doctor's supervision.


Some studies do suggest a small relationship between ADHD and diet. While improved health is always a must, this is a real disability that is best addressed under a doctor's care.

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