This test helps parents and caregivers identify whether the child shows signs that may indicate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), being a good tool to guide whether it is necessary to consult a pediatrician.
ADHD is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder where the child presents a pattern of characteristic signs that interfere with their development and that can negatively affect their social activities. Children with ADHD are generally very agitated, have difficulty following instructions and/or are unable to complete tasks to the end.
Since ADHD symptoms can be difficult to distinguish from a more difficult stage of development, we have put together some questions that can help identify whether there really is a risk of ADHD. To answer the questions, you must use the last 6 months as a reference:
How valid is the test?
This ADHD test was developed based on the diagnostic criteria defined by DSM-5. The DSM-5 is a manual created by the American Psychiatric Association that serves as a standard for diagnosing various mental disorders and is widely used by professionals in the field of psychiatry and psychology.
Even so, the test result should not be considered a definitive diagnosis, serving only to indicate whether or not the child presents warning signs that could be indicative of ADHD. The diagnosis can only be made by a psychiatrist or neuropediatrician, who, in addition to the signs presented, will also analyze the child’s behavior and history.
How to understand the result
This ADHD test can present 4 different results, according to the signs presented by the child:
- Low risk of ADHD: indicates that the child does not show enough signs of ADHD to suspect the disorder;
- Signs of hyperactivity: means that within the signs of ADHD the child shows greater dominance of signs of hyperactivity;
- Signs of attention deficit: indicates that within the signs of ADHD the child shows more signs of attention deficit;
- Signs of hyperactivity and attention deficit: means that within the signs of ADHD the child appears to have both signs of hyperactivity and attention deficit.
Which doctor to consult?
Regardless of the test result, if the child’s behavior is causing doubts in parents or caregivers, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician, psychologist or psychiatrist.
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What to do if the test indicates risk for ADHD
When the test indicates a child’s risk of having ADHD, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician to evaluate the child’s behavior. If the doctor identifies signs of concern, he or she may refer you to a psychiatrist or neuropediatrician in order to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor does not need to carry out any type of invasive examination, it is only necessary to observe the child’s behavior at school, at home and other day-to-day environments. Learn more about the symptoms and diagnosis of ADHD.
How ADHD is treated
Treatment for ADHD should always be guided by a psychiatrist or neuropediatrician and is normally carried out using medication, behavioral therapy or a combination of the two techniques. In the case of medications, and depending on the signs presented, psychostimulants, antidepressants or antipsychotics may be used to improve the child’s social interaction and performance at school.
In the case of psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is generally indicated, which is carried out by a psychologist and aims to help the child change their behavior and improve their social interaction habits.
When treating ADHD, it is very important to also involve parents, family members and all caregivers close to the child, as they will be the closest support network on a daily basis. See more details about how ADHD is treated.
Bibliography
- Hong, Natalie Comer, Jonathan S.. High-End Specificity of the Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Problems Scale of the Child Behavior Checklist for Ages 1.5-5 in a Sample of Young Children with Disruptive Behavior Disorders.. Child Psychiatry & Human Development. Vol. 50 Issue 2. p222-229 8p. 2 Charts, 1 Graph., 2019
- Thomas M. Achenbach. Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). ASEBA: Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment , 1965.
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. 5.ed. Portugal: Climepsi, 2013.
- Rodrigo Linck Graeff; Cícero E. Vaz. Assessment and diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Psychology USP – Electronic Journals of Psychology. v.19 n.3. 2008
