Behaviour Rating Scales for ADHD

Topic Overview

Written tests called rating scales are used to check for symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). These tests can help measure and compare a child's behavior with that of other children the same age.

The Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA) recommends completing one of these rating scales to help diagnose ADHD. The most common of these tests are completed by the child's parents and usually include:^{footnote 1}

• ADHD Checklist, which checks attention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness, and defiance.
• Weiss Symptom Record (WSR), which checks for a range of symptoms that may occur with ADHD and other disorders.
• Weiss Functional Impairment Rating Scale for Parents (WFIRS-P).
• SNAP-IV-26, which checks attention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness, and defiance.

Teachers also are often asked to complete rating scales, such as:

• Weiss Symptom Record (WSR).
• CADDRA Teacher Assessment Form.
• SNAP-IV-26.

Other people who know the child, such as daycare workers or relatives, can complete some of these rating scales also. Evaluations of a child in different environments can help determine if the child has a behaviour problem related to ADHD.