ADD Versus ADHD: What’s the Difference? (James W. Forgan, Ph.D., and Mary Anne Richey)

Before you read too far, we want to explain the ADHD and ADD terminology, because it can be confusing. Some professionals and parents use the acronyms ADD and ADHD interchangeably. Others use ADD to describe behaviors of forgetfulness, not paying attention, and distractibility; they apply the term ADHD to describe behaviors of hyperactivity and impulsivity. Within current professional literature, ADHD is considered the umbrella term that is used to describe both students with inattention as well as students with hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Raising Boys with ADHD : Introduction (James W. Forgan, Ph.D., and Mary Anne Richey)

We know that behind every successful boy with ADHD is a tired parent. (Actually, we hope you are not alone. We hope you are surrounded by a strong supportive team, which could include a spouse, stepparents, grandparents, and even special friends and neighbors.) Raising a boy with ADHD can be exhausting, but we know you can do it. We know this because you wouldn’t be reading this book if you didn’t care deeply about your son. You will help guide him toward success in life. There is no one path to happiness and success, and it will be a journey influenced by parents, siblings, relatives, caregivers, teachers, and others. We’ve been down similar paths in our personal lives, and we also coach parents of boys with ADHD in our professional work. In this book, we’ve combined our success secrets to help guide you in raising your young man. 

Your son with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is unique, special, and talented, and has his own set of strengths and skills. He has characteristics and abilities that you understand. You can nurture your son’s qualities to help him grow into a successful man who will make you proud.