Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are often confused due to their shared symptoms—such as poor listening, distractibility, and difficulty following instructions. However, these two neurodevelopmental conditions are fundamentally different in origin and treatment.

CAPD affects how the brain interprets sounds, especially in noisy environments, while ADHD impacts broader executive functions like focus, memory, and impulse control. Recent research highlights the need for accurate diagnosis, as children with CAPD are sometimes misidentified as having ADHD.

Understanding the differences between CAPD and ADHD is essential for parents, teachers, and clinicians to provide the right support. Learn more about how to identify symptoms, seek evaluation, and explore evidence-based strategies tailored to each child’s needs.