Why is it so difficult to distinguish Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) and Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD)?
The subjective nature of diagnosis for both disorders, coupled with the significant overlap in symptoms inevitably can lead to confusion. We have worked with children who exhibit pure AD(H)D symptoms, those who exhibit pure APD symptoms, and those who exhibit a combination of both. Children with APD may demonstrate attention difficulties; however, this is not the primary symptom of APD. The primary symptom is difficulty processing and responding to auditory information. The auditory breakdown usually occurs with long and complex auditory information, and is especially exacerbated in the presence of background noise. For instance, a teacher might say, “The computers and printers were donated by the school board” and the child with APD processes an entirely different message, such as, “The teachers and principals printed the school pictures.” When distinguishing the two disorders, it is helpful to remember that APD impacts only auditory attention and comprehension, not any of the other sens
