Autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are separate neurodevelopmental disorders that can both affect attention span and communication. It is possible to have both autism and ADHD.
Autism and ADHD can both present during childhood. Although it can be challenging to distinguish them, there are some key differences that can help a healthcare professional form a diagnosis.
This article outlines the key similarities and differences between autism and ADHD, including information about getting a diagnosis and finding support.
The use of binary terms such as “male” and “female” or “men” and “women” in this article reflects the language of the sources we’ve used. Unless otherwise noted, it’s unclear whether the research we reference included participants with expansive gender identities.
According to a 2023 review, ADHD is common in children and teenagers, and is twice as likely to affect boys.
ADHD can cause difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulse control. People with ADHD may find it hard to concentrate, sit still, or think before they act.
There are three subtypes of ADHD, and a doctor will base the diagnosis on a person’s specific symptoms:
As children with ADHD age, treatments and management strategies may help them manage their symptoms. Adults who continue to experience symptoms may benefit from counseling, which can help a person learn to manage the condition.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects a person’s social communication and interaction in various contexts. Support plans
ASD may manifest differently depending on a person’s biological sex. Early symptoms may show within the first few years of a child’s life.
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Telling the difference between autism and ADHD can be difficult, especially in younger children. The following descriptions may help with differentiating between the symptoms of the two conditions:
Attention span
Children with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention to the same thing for too long, and they may get distracted easily.
Autistic children may have a limited scope of interest. They may seem to obsess over things that they enjoy and have difficulty focusing on things that they have no interest in.
Autistic children can have any level of intelligence. Some may present with higher support needs, while others may have above-average intelligence and excel in certain subjects.
It may be easiest to spot these signs while the child is doing their homework. A child with ADHD may not be able to pay attention to any subject.
In contrast, autistic children may have high levels of focus on their favorite topics, but may not be able to engage in subjects that interest them less.
Communication
Communication difficulties are characteristic of autism. Some children with ADHD also have these difficulties, but they typically present in different ways.
Depending on the type of ADHD, children with ADHD may:
- talk continually
- want to have the last word
- not notice how their words affect other people
- interrupt others
- lose focus on the other person during conversations
Autistic children may:
- have difficulty expressing their emotions and thoughts
- not use gestures to communicate
- avoid maintaining eye contact
- fixate on one topic of conversation
- play differently — they may not understand turn-taking or imaginative play
- not initiate or respond to social interactions
Routine and structure
Children with ADHD can become bored quickly with a structure that they find uninteresting, including that of the classroom. Without variety, they may also lose interest in activities.
In contrast, autistic children may demonstrate an insistence on sameness, wanting to adhere to routines or ritualized patterns of verbal or nonverbal behavior.
For instance, they may read the same book over and over or want the same foods for dinner every evening. Changes to routine can cause upset and irritability.
There is some overlap in the symptoms of autism and ADHD, and it is possible to have both conditions.
However, medical professionals now recognize that many children meet the criteria for both. For example, a 2022 review suggests that 50% to 70% of autistic people also have ADHD.
More research is necessary for experts to fully understand the potential link between ADHD and autism.
Parents and caregivers who think their child may have ADHD, autism, or both can talk with their family doctor or pediatrician. The doctor may recommend referring the child to a child behavior disorder specialist.
A doctor will base an ADHD diagnosis on symptoms that have been present in the past 6 months. If a doctor suspects autism, they may look into a child’s behavior and development over the previous years.
In either case, they may wish to hear from teachers and other caregivers, as well as parents.
The doctor will also want to rule out conditions that can cause symptoms similar to those of autism or ADHD. These may include:
- hearing problems
- learning difficulties
- sleep disorders
People can speak with their pediatrician to find out more about the support options available to help their child manage any challenging symptoms.
Support varies, depending on the child, their symptoms, and the presence of other conditions. Support options for autism and ADHD may include behavioral therapy and medications.
Autistic children may also benefit from additional forms of therapy, depending on their needs. Some options include:
- counseling
- educational interventions
- occupational therapy
- sensory integration
- speech therapy
Training and education can also better enable parents and caregivers to help children manage their symptoms.
Support groups for ADHD and autism
As well as professional support, some people may benefit from peer support from others in similar situations. The following advocacy organizations and their support groups may be a great place to start connecting with others:
Autism and ADHD are distinct conditions that share some symptoms. Any parent or caregiver who thinks that a child is showing signs of one or both conditions can talk with their doctor.
Although there is no cure for either condition, several therapies and medications can help children make progress in the areas that they find challenging.