Behavioral Subtypes of Attention Deficit Disorder

This article reviews research on three behavioral subtypes of attention deficit disorder (ADD): without hyperactivity (ADD/WO), with hyperactivity (ADDH), and with hyperactivity and aggression (ADDHA). Children with ADDHA appear to be at increased risk to have oppositional and conduct disorders, whereas children with ADD/WO tend to show symptoms such as anxiety and depressed mood. Children in the three subtypes have similar rates of learning disabilities, but all have higher rates than found in control groups. Teacher and parent ratings are more sensitive than laboratory measures in differentiating the subtypes. Follow-up studies strongly suggest more adverse outcomes for ADDHA children.