Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and sensory modulation disorder: A comparison of behavior and physiology

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are impulsive, inattentive and hyperactive, while children with sensory modulation disorder (SMD), one subtype of Sensory Processing Disorder, have difficulty responding adaptively to daily sensory experiences. ADHD and SMD are often difficult to distinguish. To differentiate these disorders in children, clinical ADHD, SMD, and dual diagnoses were assessed. All groups had significantly more sensory, attention, activity, impulsivity, and emotional difficulties than typical children, but with distinct profiles. Inattention was greater in ADHD compared to SMD. Dual diagnoses had more sensory-related behaviors than ADHD and more attentional difficulties than SMD. SMD had more sensory issues, somatic complaints, anxiety/depression, and difficulty adapting than ADHD. SMD had greater physiological/electrodermal reactivity to sensory stimuli than ADHD and typical controls. Parent-report measures identifying sensory, attentional, hyperactive, and impulsive difficulties varied in agreement with clinician's diagnoses. Evidence suggests ADHD and SMD are distinct diagnoses.

► Studied children with clinical diagnoses of ADHD, sensory modulation disorder (SMD) and ADHD + SMD.
► ADHD + SMD had more sensory-related behaviors than ADHD and more attentional difficulties than SMD.
► SMD more sensory issues, anxiety/depression, difficulty adapting; less inattention than ADHD.
► SMD had greater electrodermal reactivity to sensory stimuli than ADHD and typical controls.
► Data suggest ADHD and SMD are distinct and proper diagnosis has critical treatment implications.