What is it about?
This study explores how to improve the accuracy of ADHD diagnoses in adolescents by differentiating impairments caused by ADHD from those caused by other factors, such as parenting stress or comorbid conditions. The research compares two versions of a standard diagnostic tool: one assessing overall impairment and another specifically measuring ADHD-related impairment. Findings reveal that parents often report greater impairment when general questions are used, especially in family-related areas, suggesting that unrelated stressors can lead to overdiagnosis.
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Why is it important?
ADHD diagnoses can be challenging during adolescence, a time when developmental changes and comorbid mental health conditions are common. This study highlights the need for tools that accurately measure ADHD-specific impairments to reduce false positive diagnoses and improve treatment decisions. By tailoring diagnostic assessments, clinicians can ensure that ADHD is correctly identified, preventing misdiagnoses and unnecessary interventions.
Perspectives
This research reflects my commitment to improving the accuracy of ADHD assessments, particularly for adolescents. The findings emphasize the importance of focusing on disorder-specific impairments to minimize diagnostic errors. We hope this work encourages clinicians to adopt more precise tools that distinguish ADHD symptoms from other sources of difficulty, leading to better outcomes for youth and their families.
Dr. Alejandro L. Vázquez
University of Tennessee Knoxville
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Measuring impairment when diagnosing adolescent ADHD: Differentiating problems due to ADHD versus other sources, Psychiatry Research, June 2018, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.03.083.
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