Abstract
While it is acknowledged that there is no flawless measure of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in childhood, a review of the literature reveals significant agreement in recommended assessment procedures. An overview of these procedures is presented in this paper. It begins with the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, such as symptom duration, inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, developmental level, symptom onset, symptoms appearing in multiple settings, clinical significance, and the ruling out of other disorders that might cause the symptoms. The paper then discusses procedures recommended in a sample of the literature that discuss ADHD diagnosis, including diagnostic procedures, rating scales, interviews, parent interviews, direct observation, laboratory and psycho-educational tests, medical evaluation, a review of school records, and peer assessments. It was found that rating scales, interviews, observations, and laboratory/psycho-educational testing were the most frequently recommended diagnostic techniques, although the efficacy of some of these techniques is questionable. It is emphasized that the diagnosis of ADHD is a matter of an educated opinion and that no single psychological or medical test is recommended for use in diagnosing ADHD. Furthermore, a number of other factors or conditions can create ADHD-like symptoms. Contains 48 references. (RJM)