Types of ADHD and Emotional Regulation

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect various aspects of a person's life, including emotional regulation. There are different types of ADHD, each with its own set of symptoms and challenges. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the types of ADHD and how they can impact emotional regulation.

What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning and development.

Types of ADHD

There are three main subtypes of ADHD, as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5):

1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (ADHD-PI)
2. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation (ADHD-PH)
3. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Combined Presentation (ADHD-C)

1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (ADHD-PI)

ADHD-PI is characterized by symptoms of inattention without significant hyperactivity or impulsivity.

Symptoms of Inattention in ADHD-PI

The symptoms of inattention in ADHD-PI may include:

1. Difficulty Sustaining Attention:

• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or activities.
• Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
• Difficulty organizing tasks and activities.

2. Forgetfulness:

• Forgetfulness in daily activities, such as forgetting appointments or losing things.

3. Difficulty Following Through:

• Difficulty following through on tasks, such as completing projects or participating in conversations.

4. Avoidance of Tasks Requiring Sustained Mental Effort:

• Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as reading or studying.

5. Losing Things:

• Losing or misplacing items necessary for tasks or activities.

Impact on Emotional Regulation

ADHD-PI can impact emotional regulation in various ways, including:

1. Difficulty Controlling Emotions:

• Difficulty regulating emotions, such as frustration, anger, or sadness.
• Emotional dysregulation may lead to mood swings and outbursts.

2. Impulsivity:

• Impulsivity can lead to impulsive behaviors and poor decision-making, which can worsen emotional dysregulation.
• Difficulty controlling impulses may lead to regrettable actions and conflicts with others.

3. Low Frustration Tolerance:

• Difficulty tolerating frustration and setbacks.
• Emotional dysregulation may lead to feelings of overwhelm and helplessness.

2. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation (ADHD-PH)

ADHD-PH is characterized by symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity without significant inattention.

Symptoms of Hyperactivity-Impulsivity in ADHD-PH

The symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity in ADHD-PH may include:

1. Restlessness:

• Feeling restless or on edge.
• Difficulty sitting still for long periods.

2. Excessive Talking:

• Talking excessively, often interrupting others or speaking out of turn.

3. Impulsivity:

• Acting impulsively, without considering the consequences.
• Difficulty waiting for one's turn.

4. Risky Behavior:

• Engaging in risky or potentially harmful behavior, such as reckless driving or substance abuse.

5. Difficulty Engaging in Quiet Activities:

• Difficulty engaging in quiet activities or tasks that require sustained attention.

Impact on Emotional Regulation

ADHD-PH can impact emotional regulation in various ways, including:

1. Impulsivity and Emotional Outbursts:

• Impulsivity can lead to impulsive behaviors and emotional outbursts.
• Difficulty controlling impulses may lead to regrettable actions and conflicts with others.

2. Restlessness and Irritability:

• Restlessness and hyperactivity can contribute to feelings of irritability and agitation.
• Difficulty sitting still may exacerbate feelings of frustration and anger.

3. Low Frustration Tolerance:

• Difficulty tolerating frustration and setbacks.
• Emotional dysregulation may lead to feelings of overwhelm and helplessness.

3. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Combined Presentation (ADHD-C)

ADHD-C is characterized by symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Symptoms of Inattention and Hyperactivity-Impulsivity in ADHD-C

The symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity in ADHD-C may include:

1. Difficulty Sustaining Attention:

• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or activities.
• Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
• Difficulty organizing tasks and activities.

2. Forgetfulness:

• Forgetfulness in daily activities, such as forgetting appointments or losing things.

3. Difficulty Following Through:

• Difficulty following through on tasks, such as completing projects or participating in conversations.

4. Avoidance of Tasks Requiring Sustained Mental Effort:

• Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as reading or studying.

5. Losing Things:

• Losing or misplacing items necessary for tasks or activities.