The Effectiveness of Rating Scales and Semi-Structured Interview in Diagnosing Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

<p><em>Problem and purpose.</em> There are few standardized tools for diagnosing ADHD in adults. The purpose of this study was to compare a standardized rating scale (CAARS) used by different observers, with a comprehensive diagnostic interview (CAADID) with respect to their ability to diagnose subtypes of ADHD.</p> <p><em>Method.</em> Subjects for this study came from baseline data of 98 patients (18 to 60 years ofage) participating in a drug trial for adult ADHD. The CAADID interview results in a yes-no decision as to whether the patient meets <em>DSM-IV</em> criteria for the subtypes ADHD. A <em>t</em> -test was used to compare the CAADID-diagnosed and Not-Diagnosed subtypes with the CAARS scores as the dependent measures.</p> <p><em>Results.</em> The CAADID duplicates results from the CAARS, with one exception: Combined Subtype reported by an observer using the CAARS did not agree with the CAADID diagnosis.</p> <p><em>Conclusions.</em> In most cases different rating perspectives reveal the same picture of the patient, except by an outside observer. Data reveals that a childhood history and an extensive interview are needed to supplement ratings by an observer.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Leadership PhD

Year

2007

Author dc:creator

• Cofrancesco, Carolyn Mae

Contributors dc:contributor

• Elsie P. Jackson
• Hinsdale Bernard
• C.K. Conners

• Personality and Social Contexts
• Psychology

Repository record dc:identifier

https://digitalcommons.andrews.edu/dissertations/291

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digitalcommons.andrews.edu:dissertations-1290