Suggestions for improving intimacy in couples in which one partner has attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) is a neurobiological disorder that is both hereditary and lifelong. Three types of AD/ HD have been determined: hyperactive-impulsive, inattentive, and combined. The hyperactive-impulsive type is marked by a lack of self-control; people with this type have a constant need for activity and are very impatient. The inattentive type has difficulty paying attention, especially to details. The combined type has characteristics of both. The goals of this article are to discuss the impact that AD/HD has on couples when one partner has the disorder and to offer some suggestions for improving intimacy.