Diagnostic Scales Scales used for diagnosis of ADHD Scales used for diagnosis of ADHD
ADHD-specific rating scales focus directly on the symptoms of ADHD44
Are used to determine if core symptoms of ADHD are present44
Reliability varies depending upon the age of the child, the scale that is used, and who is providing the information (e.g., parent, teacher, adolescent)44
Key aspects of ADHD rating scales45
Assessment measures
Frequency or severity of ADHD symptoms
Levels of functional impairment
Impact on quality of life and finances
Population
Children
– Only the Conners Comprehensive Behavior Rating Scales and the ADHD Rating Scale-IV (ADHD-RS-IV) have been validated in preschool-aged children.44
– The Vanderbilt Assessment Scales were not designed for preschool children but may be used in children ≥4 years44
Adolescents
Adults
Administration
Clinician
Parent
Teacher
Self-reported
Scoring methods
Different scales employ different scoring methods; examples include Likert scale, yes/no, or free-text responses
Threshold values for improvement following treatment vary between rating scales
Availability and cost
Some are freely available to clinicians
Some require online purchase
Copyright restrictions vary
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Scales used in diagnosis
ADHD rating scales Adult self-reported Parent & teacher ICD-10 Examples