Q. I think my son has ADD but when I spoke with his teacher she said there’s no such thing. What’s going on here?

A. She may be referring to updated nomenclature that includes Attention Deficit Disorder as one type of ADHD. As you probably already know, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder it is a chronic condition that affects millions of children. It is characterized by trouble with inattentiveness, hyperactive behavior, or impulsiveness¾and sometimes a combination of all three. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have indicated that up to 9.5% of children between the ages of 4 and 17 have been reported as having ADHD May be diagnosed when typical symptoms have been exhibited consistently for a minimum of six months in at least two different settings (e.g., at home and at school). Many speak of three types of ADHD.

Type 1: Combined ADHD – The most common type involves both inattentiveness and hyperactivity-impulsivity. May be seen in children who seem to be constantly moving or agitated and are unable to focus attention on almost anything.

Type 2: Inattentive ADHD – This type, formerly known as ADD, is marked by symptoms of impaired attention and concentration. May be observed in children who are not moving or agitated but seem to be consistently daydreaming and find it hard to attend.

Type 3: Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD – This type is characterized by hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms without inattentiveness. May be recognized in children who can be attentive as long as they are allowed to stand and/or move around while learning.