ADHD in your child can be diagnosed only if your child exhibits symptoms right from young age. Symptoms should pose difficulties for your child to manage simple activities both at home and at school. There are no specific diagnostic tests to detect ADHD.
Diagnostic Tests and Procedures for ADHD in Children
New York (USA), June 30, 2013
ADHD in Children: Diagnostic Tests and Procedures
ADHD in your child can be diagnosed only if your child exhibits specific symptoms right from a very young age. Symptoms should pose difficulties for your child to manage simple activities both at home and at school.
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association prescribes specific criteria. Your child should satisfy these criteria to be classified as suffering from ADHD. Your child should show six or more signs from either one or both categories listed below:
Category I – Hyperactivity and Impulsivity
– Climbs up or runs around in appropriate places
– Very fidgety and constantly squirms with hands and legs
– Unable to remain engaged in leisure activities or games
– Extremely talkative
– Interrupts other’s conversations and does not allow others to complete
– Very hyperactive as if operated by a motor
– Walks away from seat when it is imperative to sit
– Very impatient and cannot wait for anything
– Tells out answers even before question is completed
Category II – Inattention
– Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
– Concentration is lacking
– Very careless about things and details
– Unable to sustain focus on games or tasks
– Very forgetful in regular chores
– Dislikes or avoids tasks that require focused attention
– Clumsy in organizing and doing activities or tasks
– Often loses toys, books, pencils, and school assignments
Additionally, your child to be diagnosed with ADHD should also have such symptoms:
– Behavior is not the same as other normal children of same age
– Behavior affects performance, relationships at home, and school
– Symptoms cause extensive impairment
– Symptoms have been present for the past six months
There are no specific diagnostic tests to detect ADHD. Doctor examines your child physically and asks you questions to understand medical history of your child. If symptoms indicate possibility of ADHD, your doctor would refer your child to specialist doctors like speech pathologist, psychologist or psychiatrist, or developmental pediatrician to evaluate your child’s abilities.
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