Dr. Leon J. Schofield - Rochester's Leading ADD Expert

I would like to eliminate the term "attention deficit disorder". It is quite misleading. I would prefer to call hyperactive ADD an "inhibition disorder" and inattentive or non-hyperactive ADD a "processing disorder". These terms more correctly describe the nature of the attention problems and guide treatment planning more effectively. However, since using these new terms are likely to be premature and confusing at this point in time, I will stick with the terms hyperactive and non-hyperactive.

Hyperactive ADD involves a difficulty in controlling or inhibiting thoughts and actions. Children and adults with this type of ADD actually do pay attention to a vast array of information. They often prefer to be exposed to a high level of stimulation and they can often attend to several things at once. Paradoxically, they often can "hyper-focus" on a subject of great interest. Their problem lies in the details. These ADD children and adults tend to miss many details as they dash through incoming information or quickly get bored. If there isn't enough stimulation, they will usually move, sing or talk for no apparent reason to create stimulation. They often disturb others, bringing negative attention to themselves. These children can't be missed or ignored. Others try to reign in the ADD child or adult, often leading to unpleasant arguments and conflict.

Inattentive or non-hyperactive ADD, on the other hand involves a "processing disorder". These children and adults can be looking right at you, not distracted at all, and still miss a lot of key information. They download information at a slower pace. Because of this faulty or partial filing of incoming information, they often struggle with memory, requiring a great deal of relearning. They prefer generally to be exposed to less stimulation. They prefer to manage one thing at a time. Their problem is often in the general understanding, not the details. They often are quiet and don't bother others. They often slip by under the radar for years allowing others to miss or minimize the ADD. Others may take over their work to help out or get things done quickly which encourages them to become more dependent.

I like to use analogies to help clarify points. Think of a car without brakes but an excellent engine. You have ADHD. Think of a car with a faulty engine but excellent brakes. You have inattentive or non-hyperactive ADD.

You can imagine that these different cognitive styles might evolve into very different personality types as well. Such is the case. ADHD children and adults are likely to be high risk takers, very outgoing, easily bored, high in energy and easily frustrated. Non-hyperactive ADD children and adults are likely to be more cautious, less gregarious, lower in energy and fairly patient. ADHD children may expect too much, reach too far and crash and burn. Non-hyperactive ADD children may expect too little, avoid risk and stay in a quiet, safe place. For more information, click on Signs and Symptoms.