ABSTRACT
According to the DSM-IV, diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is primarily based on behavioral criteria. If an individual manifests six of nine symptoms of ADHD, inattentive type or ADHD, impulsive hyperactive type in two or more settings with a history of onset before age seven, ADHD may be diagnosed. However, a more complete assessment of an individual who meets behavioral criteria for ADHD is often necessary for several reasons. To firmly establish the diagnosis of ADHD, it is important to rule out other disorders that may have similar behavioral manifestations. After confirmation of the diagnosis of ADHD, the possibility of comorbid disorders must be evaluated since they may effect treatment. Finally, an assessment of an individual’s patterns of strengths and weaknesses in various neurocognitive and emotional realms is critical in designing a treatment program in areas such as academic accommodations, career planning, and therapeutic modalities. To that end, a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation including assessment of intelligence, neuropsychological functioning, academic achievement and psychological functioning is often clinically indicated for individuals with ADHD.
