Forms of adhd
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Forms of ADHD: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to ADHD Subtypes
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Research has identified various subtypes and dimensions of ADHD, each with distinct clinical features and implications for diagnosis and treatment.
Behavioral and Cognitive Subtypes of ADHD
ADHD can be broadly categorized into two primary subtypes: behavioral and cognitive. The behavioral subtype, which includes about 80% of those identified with ADHD, is marked by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These children often exhibit behaviors that can be severe enough to resemble conduct disorder but do not show specific skill deficits on neuropsychological tests1. On the other hand, the cognitive subtype, constituting approximately 20% of ADHD cases, is associated with severe academic underachievement and information processing deficits, particularly in encoding and retrieving linguistic information1.
DSM-IV ADHD Subtypes
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition (DSM-IV), classifies ADHD into three nominal subtypes based on symptom dimensions: predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type (ADHD-H), predominantly inattentive type (ADHD-I), and combined type (ADHD-C). These subtypes are defined by the relative levels of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms2. However, the validity of these subtypes has been questioned due to their longitudinal instability and minimal support for distinct etiological influences and treatment responses2. An alternative model suggests using dimensional modifiers to reflect the number of symptoms at the time of assessment, rather than discrete subtypes2.
Familial and Antisocial Subtypes
ADHD is also recognized for its familial patterns, particularly when comorbid with conduct disorder or antisocial personality disorder. Children from families with antisocial traits exhibit higher rates of psychopathology and more severe behavioral issues over time, suggesting that antisocial ADHD may be a distinct and clinically meaningful subtype6.
Heterogeneity in ADHD
The heterogeneity of ADHD is evident in its varied clinical profiles, comorbidities, and developmental trajectories. This diversity is influenced by multiple etiological factors, including genetic, neurobiological, and environmental components8. Understanding this heterogeneity is crucial for developing tailored interventions that address the specific needs of different ADHD subgroups8.
Conclusion
ADHD encompasses a range of subtypes and dimensions, each with unique characteristics and implications for diagnosis and treatment. From behavioral and cognitive subtypes to familial and antisocial forms, the complexity of ADHD requires a nuanced approach to effectively manage and support individuals with this disorder. Future research should continue to explore the underlying mechanisms and interactions that contribute to the heterogeneity of ADHD, paving the way for more personalized and effective interventions.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Behavioral and cognitive subtypes of ADHD.
ADHD can be divided into behavioral and cognitive subtypes, with behavioral subtypes characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, and cognitive subtypes exhibiting information processing deficits similar to reading disabilities.
Highly CitedValidity of DSM-IV attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptom dimensions and subtypes.
The DSM-IV ADHD subtypes provide a convenient clinical shorthand for describing current levels of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms, but lack sufficient long-term stability to justify classification of distinct forms of the disorder.
Meta-AnalysisHighly CitedADHD in children and young people: prevalence, care pathways, and service provision.
ADHD in children and adolescents is under-recognized and underdiagnosed, with a global prevalence of 2% to 7%, but timely recognition and treatment can improve long-term outcomes.
Systematic Review
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedEvidence-based pharmacological treatment options for ADHD in children and adolescents.
Pharmacological treatment options for ADHD in children and adolescents show large effect sizes and good tolerability, but more research and novel medications are needed for improved outcomes.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedNon-pharmacological interventions for cognitive difficulties in ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Non-pharmacological interventions, such as neurofeedback, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and physical exercises, show positive effects on ADHD cognitive symptomology, supporting their inclusion alongside pharmacological treatments.
Meta-AnalysisHighly CitedFamilial subtypes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a 4-year follow-up study of children from antisocial-ADHD families.
Antisocial ADHD is a distinct and clinically meaningful subform of ADHD, with higher rates of psychopathology and deviant behavior in children from these families over a 4-year follow-up period.
Observational StudyHighly CitedAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Controversy, Developmental Mechanisms, and Multiple Levels of Analysis.
ADHD is a complex disorder influenced by multiple factors, and effective interventions must consider both pharmacologic and behavioral modalities to enhance competencies rather than just symptom reduction.
Highly CitedA Review of Heterogeneity in Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a multifactorial disorder with diverse etiologies, clinical profiles, and neurobiological mechanisms, necessitating further research on identifying biologically homogeneous subgroups for tailored interventions.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedBrain development and ADHD.
ADHD is linked to dysfunction in frontal-striatal-cerebellar circuits, with MRI studies examining differences in brain structure and function.
Highly CitedGenome-wide analyses of ADHD identify 27 risk loci, refine the genetic architecture and implicate several cognitive domains
ADHD is highly polygenic, with 27 significant loci identified, and common variants are associated with impaired complex cognition and executive functions, including attention.
Meta-AnalysisHighly Cited