What Are the Three Presentations of ADHD in DSM-5?

PostedAugust 26, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The DSM-5 outlines three distinct ADHD presentations, based on the specific symptoms that an individual exhibits. These presentations help healthcare professionals better understand how ADHD manifests in different people and tailor treatment plans accordingly.

Inattentive Presentation

This presentation is characterised by difficulties in sustaining attention and following through on tasks. Individuals with the inattentive type often forget instructions, become easily distracted, and struggle to organise activities. This presentation primarily affects tasks that require prolonged concentration, such as studying or listening attentively.

Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

Individuals with this presentation exhibit excessive movement, fidgeting, and difficulty remaining seated. They may act impulsively, interrupting others, speaking out of turn, or engaging in risky behaviours without considering the consequences. The hyperactive-impulsive type tends to lead to disruptions in social, academic, and occupational settings.

Combined Presentation

As the name suggests, this presentation involves a combination of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Individuals with the combined type experience a mixture of challenges related to focus, organisation, and impulsivity, making it the most common presentation of ADHD.

How It Helps

Understanding the different ADHD presentations helps in accurately diagnosing the condition and determining the most effective treatment approach. By recognising whether the individual has an inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined presentation, healthcare providers can tailor interventions to address the specific symptoms, leading to better outcomes.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to DSM-5 Diagnostic Guidelines.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.