If you’re noticing signs like frequent daydreaming in class, easy distractibility during tasks, or constant fidgeting in yourself or a child, you might be wondering about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Perhaps you’ve also heard the term attention deficit disorder (ADD) and are unsure if there’s a difference, or if either of these are still considered actual diagnoses.
The terms ADD and ADHD can be confusing. While you might still hear people use ADD, especially when referring to inattentive presentation, it’s important to know that ADD is no longer an official diagnosis. In fact, ADD and ADHD are essentially different names for the same condition, which is now exclusively diagnosed as ADHD. Someone who might have been diagnosed with ADD in the past would now be diagnosed with ADHD, specifically one of its subtypes.
The Historical Shift from ADD to ADHD
The concept of what we now recognize as ADHD began to emerge in the 1800s. Early descriptions were quite varied, using terms like “nervous child” and “simple hyperexcitability” to capture the observed behaviors. It wasn’t until 1980, with the publication of the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), that the term attention deficit disorder (ADD) was formally introduced as a diagnostic category. Initially, ADD was categorized into two types: ADD with hyperactivity and ADD without hyperactivity.
The initial focus of ADD was on challenges related to attention and impulse control. The diagnostic criteria included three symptom clusters: inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The DSM-III also brought greater precision to the diagnosis by:
- Establishing a specific threshold for the number of symptoms required for diagnosis.
- Providing guidelines regarding the age of symptom onset.
- Specifying the duration of symptoms needed for a diagnosis.
- Emphasizing the necessity to rule out other potential psychiatric conditions.
A significant shift occurred in 1987 when the term ADD was replaced with ADHD. This change, along with the release of the revised DSM-III (DSM-III-R), also consolidated the symptom lists. The distinction between ADD with or without hyperactivity was removed, and the symptoms were combined into a single list.
Further refinement came in 1994 with the DSM-IV. The APA outlined three ADHD subtypes:
- Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: Characterized mainly by inattentive symptoms.
- Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: Characterized mainly by hyperactive and impulsive symptoms.
- Combined Presentation: Individuals meeting criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
This revision was informed by field trials and growing clinical understanding. Crucially, the DSM-IV also acknowledged that ADHD was not solely a childhood disorder. It recognized that ADHD could persist as a chronic condition, impacting individuals throughout adulthood.
Conclusion: ADHD as the Current and Accurate Diagnosis
So, to answer the question directly: yes, ADHD is still a diagnosis, and it is the currently recognized and accurate term for this neurodevelopmental condition. The term ADD is outdated and no longer used in formal diagnoses. Understanding the historical evolution from ADD to ADHD helps clarify any confusion. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms related to attention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, seeking a professional evaluation for ADHD is the appropriate step to take. Accurate diagnosis is the first step towards effective management and support.
