However not all students with AD/HD are hyperactive. In fact, some are hypoactive, which means they move and respond too slowly. The American Psychiatric Association has identified three sub-types of AD/HD: Predominantly inattentive type, predominantly hyperactive impulsive type, and combined type. Each has its own set of characteristics. So, the acronym AD/HD features a slash, indicating inclusion of all three subtypes: attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity disorder, or a combination (Turnbull 187).
The first type of AD/HD, predominantly inattentive type, describes students who have trouble paying attention in class and are forgetful and easily distracted in class. In literature these types of students are referred to as ADD. Students with the inattentive type often appear lethargic, or hypoactive. They tend to be internally focused rather than externally focused. Their minds may be hyperactive - thinking simultaneous thoughts, despite the fact that their bodies move in slow motion (Turnbull 187). Some of the symptoms of the inattentive type are:.
May fail to give close attention to details or makes mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork (not due to oppositional behavior or inability to understand instructions).
Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Loses things that are necessary to complete lessons or tasks.
The student is easily distracted by external stimuli.
They may be forgetful in daily activities.
The second type of AD/HD is the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type. These students often challenge parents' child-rearing skills (Aust, 1994), having more difficulty with bedwetting, sleep problems, stubbornness, and temper tantrums than children with the inattentive type or those with out AD/HD.
