Tests for ADD
Beware of Someone Who
Promises an Easy Answer
Unfortunately there aren’t any definitive tests for ADD. You cannot go to the doctor (or take your child to the doctor) and ask for a blood test or some other objective test for ADD. There are none.
Subjective tests are usually used to see if the person has the characteristics of someone with ADD/ADHD. These include the Conner’s Method, Continuous Performance Test (CPT), Test of Variables in Attention (TOXA), Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC) and ACTeRS profile for boys.
Many of these are given for a fee, some can be found for free on the internet, but there are no surveys, questionnaires, profiles or rating scales that are recommended, recognized or endorsed by the United States Department of Education Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.
What Can You Do
If You Think You or Your Child
May Have ADD/ADHD?
Many other medical syndromes, illnesses and disabilities share the same symptoms as ADD/ADHD. It is very important to be (or have your child) evaluated by a health care professional who can rule out other health problems that may share similar symptoms. The first step would be to see your health care practitioner. If s/he thinks ADD may be a possibility, s/he should refer you to a psychiatrist or neurologist who has specialized training in ADD and can make a formal diagnosis. Most health care professionals use the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 4th Edition (DSM-IV) as tests for ADD.
There are three types of ADHD/ADD:
Hyperactivity (restlessness, impulsivity)
Inattentiveness
Combined type -both inattentive and impulsive
The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD includes (quoted from DMS-IV):
Some hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that caused impairment present before age 7 years.
Some impairment from the symptoms is present in at least two or more settings (e.g., at school [or work] and at home).
There must be clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.
The symptoms must not be due to any other mental disorder (e.g., Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, or Pervasive Development Disorder).
Not an Easy Problem
But a Good Coach Can Help
A good coach, who is especially skilled in dealing with ADHD can be a valuable asset for you and your child. One who can help them discover their innate gifts, build on their strengths and overcome their challenges.
Sally McAfee has worked with young people and adults for the past 35 years, 20 of them as a school guidance counselor. It is there where she became adept at bringing out the strengths in her ADD/ADHD clients.
Sally earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Bucknell University and a Masters degree in Counseling from Antioch University. She is also a graduate of both CoachU and the Six Advisors Coaching Academy. Her greatest passion is to enable people to expand their own possibilities.
Sign up for Sally’s special article: “Seven Ways to Move Your Family from Chaos to Connection”. Contact Sally to arrange for a complimentary consultation.
Although there are no definitive tests for ADD, there is definitely help available.
