A comprehensive look at a child's symptoms helps determine if the diagnosis is ADD. There is not one simple test available for ADD. Testing for attention deficit disorder depends on ruling out other medical problems and a thorough observation of behavioral challenges. If you suspect a child needs ADD testing, consult with a doctor, a child psychologist, psychiatrist or social worker to help you evaluate the symptoms. Keep a record of behavior and symptoms you want the clinician to consider in the evaluation.
Scope of Evaluation
A comprehensive evaluation, as outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics, should look at family medical history, a neurological exam, interviews with parents or caretakers, observation of the child, ADD screening tools and psychological tests of IQ. A clinician should make sure there is not another underlying health problem. Observation of the child needs to be in all settings. A developmental pediatrician or neuropsychologist can conduct a neurological and IQ exam. A pediatrician or child psychologist can help with ADD screening.
When to Get Evaluation
It can be difficult to know when a child is being "just a kid" and when he needs ADD testing. Warning signs your child may need an evaluation include trouble completing schoolwork and paying attention, being easily forgetful, struggling with details of instructions, difficulty making friends, trouble organizing tasks or ongoing stress when goals are not met. Every child struggles with these issues once in awhile, but if you see a consistent problem, seek an evaluation.
Types of Symptoms Evaluated
A clinician will want to look at how long the symptoms have been present in your child. A symptom should be problematic for at least 6 months to seek an evaluation. A clinician will also need information on the severity of the symptoms and when the symptoms began. An evaluator needs to know where the symptoms appear most often, such as home or school or work.
Parents/Caretakers Key to Evaluation
Observations of behaviors made at home by a parent or caretaker can be key to a full evaluation. A history of when problems started and how often they are present can guide the clinician to an accurate diagnosis.
Educators Important to Evaluation
School record or history of performance given by teachers can help in ADD testing. It can give a timeline of when problems began and how long there has been inattention issues. An interview with a teacher or past teachers will help accurately evaluate a child's behavior and if symptoms fit ADD.
