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The Three Basic Types Of ADHD

There are three classifications of Attention Deficit Hyeractive Disorder:

  • ADHD, combined type.

    People with this type have at least 6 or more symptoms each of inattention and hyperactivity and impulsivity.

  • ADHD, predominantly inattentive type.

    In the past, this type has been called attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity (ADD). People with this type have 6 or more inattention symptoms and fewer than 6 hyperactivity and/or impulsivity symptoms.

  • ADHD, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type.

    People with this type have 6 or more hyperactivity and/or impulsivity symptoms and fewer than 6 inattention symptoms. However, inattention may still be a strong symptom. This type is found mostly in young children.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Children and teens with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) defy their parents. They often argue about rules, but tend not to break them. They do not harm other people or property.

Since defiance is fairly common in all children, especially in teenagers, it needs to happen frequently and cause significant problems within the family before a diagnosis of ODD can be made.

Almost half of children and teens with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have oppositional defiant disorder.

The oppositional defiant behavior of some children and teens will worsen and lead to conduct disorder. Children with conduct disorder may have a pattern of lying, stealing, and cheating, may skip school or run away from home, and may harm animals, property, and other people.

Conduct Disorder

Conduct disorder, as defined by the American Psychiatric Association, is a repeated and persistent pattern of violating the basic rights of others or violating social rules. People with conduct disorder may:

  • Harm or threaten to harm other people or animals. They may bully or threaten people, initiate physical fights, or be cruel to animals.
  • Cause property damage or loss. They may often deliberately cause a fire or otherwise destroy property.
  • Lie, cheat, or steal. They may break into someone's house or shoplift. They may lie to obtain things that they want or to avoid consequences.
  • Violate household or social rules. Children with conduct disorder may stay out at night without permission from their parents. They may run away from home or be absent from school without permission.

For a person to be diagnosed as having conduct disorder, three or more behaviors need to have been present during the past 12 months with at least one behavior within the past 6 months.