Assessing adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

1. Clinical Interview:

• Detailed History: The psychologist conducts a thorough interview to gather information about the individual’s developmental, medical, psychiatric, educational, and social history. This includes questions about childhood behaviors, as ADHD often begins in childhood.
• Current Symptoms: The psychologist assesses the presence of current ADHD symptoms, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms must be present in multiple settings (e.g., work, home) and cause significant impairment.
• Impact on Life: Understanding how these symptoms affect daily life, work, relationships, and other areas is crucial.

2. Behavioral Assessments:

• Standardized Questionnaires: The psychologist may use ADHD-specific rating scales or questionnaires, such as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) or Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS). These tools help quantify the severity of symptoms.
• Collateral Information: Input from family members, partners, or colleagues can be valuable in providing an outside perspective on the individual’s behavior.

3. Cognitive and Psychological Testing:

• Neuropsychological Tests: These assessments can evaluate cognitive functions such as attention, memory, executive function, and processing speed. Examples include the Continuous Performance Test (CPT) or the Stroop Test.
• Differential Diagnosis: The psychologist also considers and rules out other conditions that might mimic ADHD symptoms, such as anxiety disorders, depression, or learning disabilities.

4. Review of Documentation:

• Academic and Work Records: Reviewing past report cards, work evaluations, or other relevant documentation can provide additional insight into lifelong patterns of behavior and functioning.
• Medical Records: These may be reviewed to rule out medical conditions that could contribute to symptoms.

5. Diagnostic Criteria:

• DSM-5 Criteria: The psychologist will use the criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition) to diagnose ADHD. This includes ensuring that the symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder and have persisted for at least six months.

6. Feedback and Recommendations:

• Feedback Session: After the assessment, the psychologist provides feedback, discussing the diagnosis (if applicable) and what it means.
• Treatment Plan: If ADHD is diagnosed, the psychologist may recommend treatment options, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), coaching, or, if necessary, a referral to a psychiatrist for medication management.