Assessment of ADHD in kids and adults

ADHD is now recognised as a brain-based difference in the way that some individuals think and process information. This difference can have significant impacts on a person’s ability to function in settings requiring sustained attention and strong executive functioning skills (i.e., planning, organisation, time-management, and getting started on tasks), including classrooms and the workplace. Neuropsychologists are particularly well suited to diagnoses ADHD in children and adults, as they are trained to examine cognitive profiles based on underlying brain functioning.

“The holy grail of ADHD diagnosis is to have a test that tells you objectively, with no margin of error: yes, this person has ADHD or no, they dont. We dont have that yet, but we do have neuropsychological tests, which tell you something about how a persons brain works.” Article published by Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)

Although there is no single medical, physical, or genetic test for ADHD, a neuropsychological diagnostic evaluation provides a comprehensive assessment by gathering information from as many sources as possible. These sources include ADHD symptom checklists, standardised behaviour rating scales, a detailed history of past and current functioning, information obtained from family members or significant others who know the person well, and cognitive testing if indicated.

Information for parents of school-aged children

The aim of an assessment for ADHD in children is to identify the range of difficulties your child is experiencing and determine whether they are typical of ADHD, or whether they are more likely to result from other psychological concerns. This is important in making decisions about management and intervention. The assessment includes the following:

• A diagnostic interview with parents (and teenagers if appropriate)

• Cognitive testing of intellectual skills, attention skills, and academic achievement

•  Behavioural observations

• Standardised ADHD rating scales to parents, caregivers, and teachers

• A file review of previous school reports and other relevant documents (e.g., medical reports, allied health assessments)

• A written report outlining results, diagnostic opinions, and recommendations

Information for adults

Although ADHD is usually first diagnosed in and associated with childhood, approximately two thirds of those that meet criteria for the condition in childhood continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. There are two approaches used to diagnose ADHD in adults. Firstly, an assessment can be completed using cognitive tests in a manner similar to that described above for school-aged children. Secondly, clinical interviewing over several sessions can be completed to evaluate ADHD symptoms and their functional impact.

The process of assessment via clinical interviewing typically includes:

• 3 to 4 hours of interviewing done face-to-face or via Telehealth. 

• Standardised rating scales sent to the individual and a close family member or partner

• Behavioural observations

• File review of relevant documents (e.g., medical reports, allied health assessments)

• A written report outlining results, diagnostic opinions, and recommendations

For more information about ADHD assessments please contact The Neurodevelopment Clinic using the contact form on this website.