The Tigger Type: Understanding Hyperactive and Impulsive ADHD

In This Post

By Dr. Douglas Cowan, Psy.D., Marriage and Family Therapist

Bouncing. Talking. Interrupting. Climbing. Laughing. Exploding. Crashing. Starting over.
Tigger-Type ADHD is the most visible—and the most misunderstood—form of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Named after the energetic character from the Hundred Acre Wood, the Tigger Type is full of movement, curiosity, and sometimes chaos.
This subtype represents the classic hyperactive and impulsive profile—and while often disruptive, it’s also incredibly treatable and manageable with the right supports.

Core Characteristics of the Tigger Type

  • Constant motion or fidgeting
  • Impulsive speech or behavior
  • Difficulty sitting still or waiting
  • Blurting out answers or interrupting
  • High levels of enthusiasm followed by quick frustration
  • Difficulty finishing tasks they start

What’s Going On in the Brain?

Tigger-Type ADHD involves underactivity in the prefrontal cortex and poor dopamine regulation.
This impacts:

  • Impulse control
  • Decision-making
  • Emotional regulation

Their brains seek novelty and stimulation, making them prone to quick shifts, risky choices, and low frustration tolerance.

Why It’s Often Misunderstood

Because their behavior is loud and visible, Tigger Types are often labeled:

  • “Bad”
  • “Disruptive”
  • “Defiant”

In reality, their behavior stems from a neurological need for stimulation—and a brain that struggles more with brakes than with gas.

Conventional Treatment Options

  • Stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta) are often very effective in reducing hyperactivity and improving attention
  • Non-stimulants (Intuniv, Strattera) may be better for kids with anxiety or sleep issues
  • Behavioral therapy emphasizes self-regulation, impulse control, and positive reinforcement
  • School strategies include movement breaks, visual reminders, and consistent expectations

Alternative Tools That Help

  • CES CalmBox
    Helps with emotional regulation and reduces impulsivity
  • Dual-N-Back Training
    Strengthens short-term memory and impulse control
  • LifeWave Patch Protocol
    • X39: Balances energy and supports neurological repair
    • Aeon: Calms the nervous system and reduces reactivity
    • Carnosine: Supports stamina and antioxidant balance
  • Nutrition Strategy
    • High protein breakfast
    • Eliminate sugar and dyes
    • Add omega-3s and magnesium
  • Movement Therapy
    Martial arts, dance, swimming, or biking give Tigger brains what they need most: regulated activity.
  • Morning:
    X39 patch to balance energy, Aeon patch to calm the system, protein-rich breakfast, and 15 minutes of movement
  • Midday:
    Dual-N-Back training for 10 minutes
  • Afternoon:
    Structured activity, visual checklist, and praise for completed steps
  • Evening:
    CES CalmBox session (20–30 min), screen-free wind-down, magnesium supplementation
  • Night:
    Carnosine patch or natural sleep support

Note: LifeWave patches are worn 12 hours on, 12 hours off. Rotate application sites daily.

Helping Tigger Types Manage Emotions and Energy

Tigger-Type kids often go from joy to meltdown in seconds. Teach emotional vocabulary:

  • “I feel excited…”
  • “I feel mad…”
  • “I need help…”

Use visual tools, timers, breathing cues, and reset breaks. Most importantly—affirm their strength.
Tiggers are curious, energetic, creative, and passionate.

Final Words for Parents and Teachers

Tigger-Type children are not broken—they’re just wired differently.
They need:

  • Structure
  • Movement
  • Support
  • And a whole lot of encouragement

With the right tools, Tiggers grow into inventors, leaders, and adventurers. Their energy is a gift—when channeled well.

 

dual n-back training executive function focus strategies neurofeedback non-medication treatments
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