What’s the Difference Between ADHD and ASD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have several similarities and differences in their diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment. It is not uncommon for a person to be diagnosed with both ADHD and ASD. However, until 2013, ADHD and ASD could not be diagnosed together. It is also possible for autism to be misdiagnosed as ADHD. Both ADHD and ASD are classified under neurodevelopmental disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5). They are often diagnosed in childhood but have also been diagnosed in adulthood. ADHD has three types: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combination type. For ASD, there are three levels of severity, where level three requires the most support. So what are the similarities and differences between ADHD and ASD?
Similarities between ADHD and ASD
Studies have indicated that 22 to 83% of children with autism also meet diagnosis criteria for ADHD. It has also been stated in research that about 30-65% of those with ADHD also show signs and symptoms of autism. Regarding symptoms of each, ADHD and ASD have multiple similarities and overlaps. These symptoms include difficulty with emotional maturity (such as management of distress, anger, and frustration), difficulties with sensory sensitivities, social challenges, and executive dysfunction (including challenges completing/organizing tasks and time management). Similarities also include difficulties with impulsivity, learning difficulties/disabilities, and problems with focusing.
Differences between ADHD and ASD
There are multiple differences between ADHD and ASD. Although both ADHD and ASD can cause difficulties socially, they can differ regarding the reason. Those with ADHD can have difficulty with socialization due to impulsivity, interrupting, and difficulty paying attention. For those with ASD, it can be due to difficulties understanding social cues, pretenses, and body language. Those with ASD can also experience social difficulties due to withdrawn behaviors and avoidance of eye contact. ASD symptoms can also include speech delays, lack of speaking, and difficulty with speech patterns. Those diagnosed with ADHD can experience symptoms including trouble sitting still, hyperactivity, frequent changing of tasks, and interrupting others due to blurting out things and excessive talking. While those with ADHD can have trouble with paying attention and staying on task, those with ASD can experience intense focus on an individual thing. People diagnosed with ASD can also experience repetitive movement, which can include rocking or other stimming behaviors. It has been studied that children with ADHD can have difficulty and dislike for repetition, routines, and order. However, those with ASD often like and search for repetition and familiarity.
Treatments for ADHD include psychiatric medications, counseling, skills training, and behavioral therapy. Treatment for Autism can also include behavioral therapy and psychiatric medication, as well as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills counseling. Diagnosis for both ADHD and ASD can start with a conversation with one’s doctor or mental health professional. From there, further assessment, potential diagnosis, and treatment can follow.
Resources:
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
Arthur, S. (2023). Do I have ADHD, autism, or both?. Psych central. https://psychcentral.com/adhd/can-you-have-adhd-and-autism
Holland, K (2024). The relationship between ADHD and autism. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/autism-and-adhd
Rudy, L. (2023). Autism vs. ADHD: What are the differences?. Very well health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/autism-vs-adhd-5213000
Sokolova, E., et al(2017). A causal and mediation analysis of the comorbidity between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 47(6), 1595–1604. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-017-3083-7
