ADHD vs Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Everything on ADHD

12 Mar

Some may confuse ADHD with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This is not surprising, as some of the symptoms between these two disorders overlap. However, there are key differences between the two.

The table below highlights these main differences.

	ADHD	ASD
What is it?	A neurodevelopmental condition that makes it difficult for kids to concentrate, sit still and curb impulsivity.	A range of neurodevelopmental conditions that results in difficulties with social skills, communication and thinking. Repetitive behaviours are also a part of ASD.
Common symptoms	Seem distracted, forgetful or daydreamy Struggle with organisation and completing tasks Prone to tantrums and meltdowns because of lack of impulse control Has trouble following instructions Is constantly “on the go” Have trouble turn-taking and being patient Has trouble sitting still during quiet activities, such as mealtimes or doing schoolwork Interrupts people, blurts things out without consideration and may struggle with non-verbal cues May or may not have sensory issues	Avoids eye contact and/or physical contact Has delayed speech (or no speech) or repeats certain phrases again and again Prone to tantrums and meltdowns due to sensory processing issues, anxiety or communication difficulties Gets upset by changes in routine Struggles with social skills Uses excessive body movements to self-soothe (e.g., rocking, flapping hands) Has obsessive interests Has trouble understanding people’s feelings on his own Reacts strongly with the way things sound, smell, look, taste, feel (sensory processing issues)
Possible social and emotional impact	May have difficulty making and keeping friends due to difficulties following social rules May result in self-esteem and motivation issues if constantly getting negative feedback about behaviour	Main struggles include social communication, understanding and repetitive routines or behaviours Have trouble making friends, understanding how to relate to other people and making sense of social cues