Diagnosis and assessment

Abstract

The first step in the treatment of ADHD is making the correct diagnosis. Only when it is known that a child has ADHD and that all other possible causes of child’s problems have been excluded, can a proper treatment programme be devised. The best person to make the diagnosis is a specialist paediatrician with an interest and expertise in developmental and learning difficulties in children. Educational psychologists also play a vital role in the process by which ADHD is diagnosed. This chapter outlines diagnosis and assessment of ADHD, including the history, examination, psychometric testing (intelligence, academic achievement, other abilities), special investigations, and formulation of a management plan.