How To Diagnose Attention Deficit Disorder
Parents and teachers should be aware that assessment of Attention Deficit Disorder is quite a complex process. It should involve input from the child, his/her parents, relevant school staff, a psychological service provider or psychiatrist and a medical doctor. A thorough investigation would take the following factors into account:
- Persistence and History of the Presenting Problem
- Intellectual Functioning
- Academic Functioning
- In School Observation
- At Home Behaviours
- Medical History
What to Look For (must have at least 5 of these):
- Not just hyperactivity (or over-activity).
- Persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity or impulsivity that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed in similar aged peers.
- Onset before 7 years of age; although diagnosis usually is made well after this because it is harder for younger children to sit still and to pay attention for long periods of time.
- Impairment must be noted in at least 2 settings.
- Must have possessed symptoms for at least 6 months.
- Must be clear evidence of interference with developmentally appropriate social, academic, or occupational functioning.
- Is not better accounted for by another medical or psychological condition
