Results
Adult ADHD assessment instruments can focus on current symptoms, look retrospectively at symptoms, or take a combined approach in their assessment of ADHD symptoms. Techniques used in the instruments include self-report, observer-report, and clinician-administered/interview. The following sections provide an overview of the 7 instruments reviewed, including their respective strengths and weaknesses in a straightforward pro and con format. Table 1 offers a detailed analysis of each instrument.
Although most PCPs will become familiar with and use only 1 instrument, differences in client demographics, clinic dynamics, and provider preferences make an analysis of various instruments necessary. Although the DSM-5 is currently the guideline for diagnosis of mental disorders, the DSM-IV was the appropriate guideline at the time the following instruments were designed. Each instrument has been validated in the adult population.