Clinical Use of the Pediatric Attention Disorders Diagnostic Screener for Children At Risk for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Case Illustrations

Abstract

The Pediatric Attention Disorders Diagnostic Screener is a multidimensional, computerized screening tool designed to assess attention and global aspects of executive functioning in children at risk for attention disorders. The screener consists of a semi-structured diagnostic interview, brief parent and teacher rating scales, 3 computer-based measures of executive functioning, and a nomographic report analysis. Results from parent and teacher rating scales and computer tests are incrementally combined to produce a posttest probability (likelihood ratio) for the target disorder (i.e., attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). The screener's methodology and psychometric properties are presented as well as 2 clinical cases to illustrate its clinical utility.

KEYWORDS:

• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• screening
• executive functions
• children

Notes

Pseudonyms were used.