Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessment

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a group of behavioural symptoms that include inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. The clinical practitioner will base a diagnosis of ADHD on criteria from the Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, also known as DSM. The ADHD evaluation may include the following:

  • Talking with the child or adult to get a patient history
  • Talking with the parents to get a patient and family health and behavior history
  • Physical exam
  • Clinical assessment using standardized behavior rating scales or questionnaires
  • Review of the person’s academic, social, and emotional functioning and developmental level
  • Evaluation of learning disabilities