If you’ve ever wondered about a child who frequently daydreams in class, struggles to focus on homework, or seems constantly fidgety, the question of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) might arise. Or perhaps you’ve encountered the term Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and questioned, “Add Is What, and is it different?” Maybe you even recognize these traits in yourself, stretching back to childhood, and are seeking clarity on whether it could be ADD or ADHD.
The crucial point to understand is that while people often ask, “ADD is what?”, ADD and ADHD aren’t actually distinct conditions anymore in medical terms. They are essentially different names used at different times for what is now understood as the same condition. While you might still hear the term ADD in casual conversation, it’s no longer an official medical diagnosis. Instead, someone who might have been diagnosed with ADD in the past would now be identified as having one of the subtypes of ADHD.
The Historical Evolution of ADD and ADHD Terminology
The journey to our current understanding of ADHD began in the 1800s, when medical professionals started observing patterns of behavior in children that we now recognize as indicators of ADHD. Early descriptions were quite varied, using terms like “nervous child” and “simple hyperexcitability” to capture these observations. A significant step in formalizing the understanding came with the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III), published in 1980 by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). This edition officially introduced the term Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).
Initially, ADD was categorized into two forms: ADD with hyperactivity and ADD without hyperactivity. The core focus of the ADD diagnosis was on difficulties related to attention and impulse control. The diagnostic criteria included three symptom groups: inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, offering a more specific framework than previous descriptions. The introduction of ADD in DSM-III was also important because it:
- Established symptom thresholds for diagnosis.
- Set guidelines for the age of symptom onset.
- Defined the duration of symptoms needed for diagnosis.
- Mandated the exclusion of other potential psychiatric conditions.
However, the understanding of this condition continued to evolve. In 1987, with the release of the revised third edition of the DSM (DSM-III-R), the term ADD was replaced with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This revision also moved away from the two subtype concept and consolidated the three symptom lists into a single, unified set of criteria.
Further refinement occurred in 1994 with the publication of the DSM-IV. This edition introduced the three ADHD subtypes that are still recognized today:
- Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: This is what was commonly referred to as ADD in the past. Individuals primarily struggle with inattention.
- Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: Individuals in this category mainly exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms.
- Combined Presentation: This subtype applies to individuals who meet the criteria for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
These subtypes were identified through extensive field trials and interviews, reflecting a deeper understanding of the different ways ADHD can manifest. The DSM-IV also marked a shift in recognizing ADHD as not just a childhood condition but one that could persist chronically into adulthood.
ADD is What We Used to Call Inattentive ADHD
So, when someone asks “ADD is what?”, the most accurate answer is that ADD is the older term for what we now understand as ADHD, specifically the Predominantly Inattentive Presentation of ADHD. The term ADD is no longer officially used in diagnosis, but it remains in common language, often referring to individuals who primarily struggle with focus and attention without prominent hyperactivity.
Understanding this historical shift in terminology is crucial. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms related to attention difficulties, it’s important to seek a professional evaluation. A healthcare provider can assess whether the symptoms align with the criteria for ADHD and, if so, determine the most appropriate presentation (inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined). This precise diagnosis ensures that individuals receive the most effective support and interventions tailored to their specific needs.
