Types of ADD/ADHD

ADD may have either a predominantly inattentive presentation, a predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation, or a combined presentation.

Inattention Symptoms:

1. Makes careless mistakes in work; fails to give attention to details
2. Difficulty paying attention during tasks
3. Does not appear to listen when spoken to
4. Does not follow instructions; fails to finish tasks
5. Difficulty keeping things in order (including managing time)
6. Avoids, dislikes, or hesitates to engage in tasks that demand extensive mental effort (writing essays, homework)
7. Loses things needed for tasks (losing pencils, keys, glasses)
8. Easily distracted (both by external events and unrelated thoughts)
9. Forgetful (forgetting chores, bills, returning calls)

Hyperactivity/Impulsivity Symptoms:

1. Fidgets with hands, taps feet, squirms in seat
2. Leaves his/her seat often when sitting is expected
3. Runs or climbs in inappropriate settings (or feeling restless in adults)
4. Unable to remain quiet during activities
5. Acts as if “driven by a motor”
6. Talks excessively
7. Answering before the question was finished or not waiting turn in conversation
8. Difficulty waiting for turn
9. Interrupts or intrudes on others

At least 6 (or 5 for those 17 and older) symptoms of inattention must be present for at least 6 months in order for ADD to be predominantly inattentive.

At least 6 (or 5 for those 17 and older) symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity must be present for at least 6 months in order for ADHD to be predominantly hyperactive/impulsive.

If enough symptoms from both categories are present, a combined presentation may exist.
Contact Dr. Gordon for help with your ADHD. We have treatment and solutions available online, by phone, and in our offices.

written by:
 Brianna Malinowski, 
Jay Gordon, Ph.D

Barlow, D., & Durand, V. (2015). Abnormal psychology: An integrative approach (7th ed., pp. 515-516). Stamford, CT: Cengage Learning.