I'm actually getting tested for ADD on the recommendation of my therapist (the preliminary answer seems to be that no, I do not have ADD). I most emphatically cannot work while I have a TV running. In fact, I can't even seem to program and listen to music at the same time.
How did the tests work? I've been professionally tested for ADD, and the "tests" were just the very same questionnaires for ADD that you can find on the Internet. And surprise! The diagnosis was the same one that I would have come up, or that anyone who knows me would have come up with. I.e., yes.
I can't work with a TV on either. And music with lyrics is hard to program to as well. Ambient music is ok, I usually find it helps get me into the zone. I thought that was pretty normal though...
I'm actually getting tested for ADD on the recommendation of my therapist (the preliminary answer seems to be that no, I do not have ADD). I most emphatically cannot work while I have a TV running. In fact, I can't even seem to program and listen to music at the same time.