ADHD vs Autism | Cadabam’s Child Development Center
Every parent notices when their child learns or behaves differently from peers. Two of the most common developmental differences—ADHD vs autism—can look alike at first glance. At Cadabams CDC, we understand how confusing it can be to tell them apart. This article breaks down the core symptoms, differences, and overlaps so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
1. Quick Comparison Snapshot
Core Symptoms at a Glance
- ADHD: Persistent inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity.
- Autism: Persistent challenges in social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviours.
Age When Signs Typically Appear
- ADHD: Symptoms often noticeable between 3–6 years; official diagnosis usually by 6–12 years.
- Autism: Early signs can emerge as young as 12–18 months; reliable diagnosis possible by 2–3 years.
2. What Is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting millions of children.
Primary Symptoms
- Inattention – difficulty sustaining focus, losing items, forgetting routines.
- Hyperactivity – fidgeting, excessive running or climbing, talking non-stop.
- Impulsivity – interrupting, trouble waiting turns, risky actions without thinking.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Genetics – 74 % heritability rate.
- Prenatal exposure – smoking, alcohol, low birth weight.
- Brain development – smaller pre-frontal cortex volume.
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Cadabams CDC uses:
- Conners Rating Scales (parent & teacher forms)
- Clinical interviews and classroom observations
- Rule-out of hearing, vision, or learning disorders
3. What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Core Characteristics
- Social communication differences – limited eye contact, delayed speech, trouble with back-and-forth conversation.
- Restricted & repetitive behaviours – hand-flapping, lining up toys, extreme need for sameness.
Sensory & Communication Patterns
- Over- or under-sensitivity to sound, light, textures.
- May communicate with echolalia, gestures, or assistive devices.
Levels of Support Needed
- Level 1: Requires some support.
- Level 2: Substantial support.
- Level 3: Very substantial support.
4. ADHD vs Autism: Key Differences
Attention vs Social Communication
- ADHD: Can focus intensely on topics of interest; struggles with sustained attention on non-preferred tasks.
- Autism: May focus excessively on narrow interests; struggles initiating or maintaining social interactions.
Executive Function vs Restricted Interests
- ADHD: Difficulties with planning, organisation, time management.
- Autism: Narrow, intense interests that are highly specific (e.g., train timetables).
Impulsivity vs Repetitive Behaviors
- ADHD: Impulsive speech or actions driven by immediate gratification.
- Autism: Repetitive behaviours driven by self-regulation or sensory needs.
Learning Styles Comparison
- ADHD: Learns best with frequent breaks, active movement, visual cues.
- Autism: Learns best with predictable routines, visual schedules, explicit instruction.
5. Where Symptoms Overlap
Sensory Sensitivities
- Both groups may be overwhelmed by loud noises or seek deep pressure.
Executive Dysfunction
- Difficulty shifting tasks, working memory issues, and emotional dysregulation can appear in both.
Co-Occurrence Rates
- 30–50 % of autistic children also meet criteria for ADHD.
- 20–25 % of children with ADHD show autistic traits.
6. Assessment Services at Cadabam’s CDC
Step-by-Step Evaluation Process
- Intake call – gather developmental history.
- Standardised tests – Conners, ADOS-2, CARS.
- Multidisciplinary review – paediatrician, psychologist, speech & OT.
- Feedback session – share results and next-step plan.
Tools We Use
- Conners 4 – ADHD symptom severity.
- ADOS-2 – autism-specific social-communication observation.
- CARS-2 – childhood autism rating scale.
Multidisciplinary Team Roles
- Developmental paediatrician – rules out medical causes.
- Clinical psychologist – administers standardised tests.
- Speech therapist – evaluates language & pragmatic skills.
- Occupational therapist – assesses sensory & motor profiles.
7. Treatment Approaches for ADHD
Treatment for ADHD is multifaceted.
Behavioural Parent Training
- 12-week group programme teaching positive reinforcement, consistent routines.
Occupational Therapy
- Sensory integration sessions to improve self-regulation.
- Handwriting & motor-skills support for school tasks.
School-Based Interventions
- IEP or 504 Plan accommodations: extra time, movement breaks, preferential seating.
- Teacher coaching on behaviour-specific praise.
8. Treatment Approaches for Autism
Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention
- 25–30 hrs/week of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) for ages 2–5.
- Focus on communication, play skills, daily living routines.
Speech & Language Therapy
- Targets functional communication, social pragmatics, and augmentative & alternative communication (AAC).
Social Skills Groups
- Small peer groups (4–6 children) practising turn-taking, reading facial expressions, and coping strategies.
9. Navigating the Next Steps
Questions to Ask Your Pediatrician
- “Should I screen for ADHD or autism if my child isn’t speaking in phrases by 24 months?”
- “What red flags would warrant an immediate referral?”
Preparing for Your First CDC Visit
- Bring school reports, baby book/milestone records, and videos of concerning behaviours.
- Complete pre-visit questionnaires emailed after booking.
Insurance & Payment FAQs
- Cashless options for major insurers like HDFC Ergo, ICICI Lombard.
- EMI plans available for comprehensive assessments.