Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder characterised by a persistent pattern of inattentive and/or hyperactive/impulsive behaviour that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed in individuals of the same developmental level. There are three types of ADHD:
1. Predominantly Inattentive Type
Common features include:
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Difficulty maintaining focus/easily distracted
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Fails to complete tasks/follow through on instructions
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Avoids/dislikes tasks that require sustained mental focus
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Poor attention to detail/lots of careless mistakes
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Regularly loses his/her materials or belongings
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Poor planning and organisational skills
2. Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Type
Common features include:
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Constantly fidgets, taps, or squirms in his/her seat
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Frequently gets up out of his/her seat
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Runs/climbs in situations where it is inappropriate
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Restless/difficult to keep up with
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Often talks excessively
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Interrupts others/butts into others' conversations
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Has trouble waiting his/her turn
3. Combined Type
Individuals with ADHD (combined type) display both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive features.
What is ADHD?
How is an ADHD Assessment helpful?
An ADHD Assessment has the potential to:
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Identify whether an individual has ADHD and therefore make better sense of their strengths and challenges
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Determine what interventions/supports are likely to be helpful
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Assist with accessing extra supports at school e.g. classroom accomodations and special exam provisions
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Evaluate treatment progress
ADHD Assessment
What is involved?
An ADHD Assessment typically involves five stages:
1
Initial Assessment
The first step involves meeting a clinician to discuss your concerns and what you would like to get out of testing. Your clinician will also gather a comprehensive history. The initial assessment is imperative in ensuring that the appropriate tests are administered, the findings are interpreted appropriately, and the recommendations are individually-tailored.
Duration: 1.5 hours
2
Cognitive Assessment
Your child is then administered either the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence – Fourth Edition (WPPSI-IV) (for children aged 2 years and 6 months to 7 years and 7 months) OR the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fifth Edition (WISC-V) (for children aged 6 to 16 years).
Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours
3
Academic Assessment
Your child is then administered the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test – Second Edition (WIAT-III), which is appropriate for children aged 4 to 19 years and 11 months.
Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
4
ATTENTIVENESS ASSESSMENT
Your child is then administered either the Conners Kiddie Continuous Performance Test, 2nd Edition (for ages 4 to 7) OR Conners Continuous Performance Test, 3rd Edition (CPT-3) (for ages 8 years and older).
Duration: 15 - 20 minutes
5
Online Questionnaire
You and your child's teacher(s) are then required to complete an online questionnaire, which looks at inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive behaviour, along with common co-occurring difficulties such as learning difficulties, behavioural difficulties, and peer problems.
Duration: 10 - 15 minutes (per questionnaire)
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