University of Virginia Health System

Diagnosis of AD/HD

AD/HD is a clinical diagnosis based on DSM IV criteria. A trial of stimulant medication has no role in diagnosis because children without AD/HD can have improvements in attention on these medications

A diagnosis of AD/HD should never be made based solely upon a score on a standardized rating scale (e.g. Connor's questionnaires). These scales measure symptoms of inattention, impulsivity and increased activity but due not identify their origin. These symptoms may reflect other conditions including cognitive impairments, psychosocial stressors, medical and psychiatric disorders.

However, formal rating scales (e.g., Connor's questionnaires) can be invaluable in measuring effectiveness of therapy, particularly if it is unclear from the subjective feedback. A base line rating scale should be done to allow for future comparison. Available in this module is an abbreviated rating scale based on DSM IV Criteria, AD/HD Diagnostic Rating Scale, which can be printed from your computer and used in clinical practice.