Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Assessment

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Assessment Notes

Overview of ADHD Assessment

• There are no definitive assessment tools for diagnosing ADHD, such as genetic markers, blood tests, or brain scans.

Diagnosis Methods

• Norm-Referenced Behavior Rating Scales
  • These scales involve standardized tests where a child's behavior is compared to normative data.
• Observations
  • Behavior assessment through direct observation in a controlled setting.
• Interviews
  • Collect qualitative data from parents, teachers, and the child.
• Physical Exams
  • Rule out other medical issues that may mimic ADHD symptoms.

Norm-Referenced Behavior Rating Scales: Conners 3 (2015)

• Purpose: To evaluate various behavioral and emotional facets tied to ADHD.
• Assesses the following areas:
  • Inattention
  • Hyperactivity/Impulsivity
  • Defiance/Aggression
  • Executive Functioning
  • Emotional Lability
• Versions Available:
  • Long Form: Takes about 20 minutes; provides comprehensive data.
  • Short Form: Takes about 10 minutes; covers essential symptoms.
  • ADHD Symptoms Only: Very brief, around 5 minutes; focuses exclusively on ADHD symptoms.
• Reporting Sources:
  • Parent and Teacher Reports: For children aged 6-18 years.
  • Children Self-Reports: For children aged 8-18 years.

Observations in ADHD Assessment

• Continuous Performance Test (Conners CPT 3):
  • Administration: 14-minute assessment consisting of 360 trials.
  • Target Age: Suitable for children aged 8 and older.
  • Method: Child presses the spacebar except when an “X” appears, testing their ability to maintain attention and inhibit impulsive responses.
  • Assesses the following capabilities:
  • Ability to sustain attention over time.
  • Ability to inhibit behaviors that may be impulsively performed.