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Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) Testing for Adults in Boston & Newton, MA
Understanding the Terminology
Did you know that Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are really the same thing?
It is a common misconception that ADD and ADHD reflect two types of attention-related problems. So, why do we have two different names for the same disorder? The use of two different names for the same disorder developed in large part out of evolving beliefs about the causes of the condition and differing approaches to diagnosis. When determining a formal diagnosis following an ADD test, most psychologists rely on a diagnostic manual that calls the overall condition Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, yet provides sub-categories to more precisely characterize an individual's particular issues. The sub-categories are: Predominantly Inattentive Type, Predominantly Hyperactive Type, and Combined Type, the latter indicating that an individual has both inattention and hyperactivity problems.
However, medical doctors and some psychiatrists may use different terminology because they rely on a different manual for determining diagnostic labels. Psychiatrists and other medical doctors may use either the term Hyperkinetic Syndrome of Childhood or Attention Deficit Disorder, perhaps also using more specific sub-types to further clarify the nature of an individual's problems.
So, while there are two names, there is really just one disorder. As such, the testing for ADD is identical to testing for ADHD.
If you would like to learn about CPA's Boston ADHD testing services, please click this ADHD Testing link. If you would like to read a more detailed account of the history and development of the various terms used to describe the condition of ADD/ADHD, please click the following link: ADD & ADHD: History of Related Terminology.