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Abstract:
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often
difficult to diagnose due to the subjectivity of its symptoms and
the lack of specific assessment measures. However, computerized
tests of attention have recently been used as objective measures
that may assist in the diagnosis of the disorder. The present study
evaluated the consistency between results from the Conners Parent
Rating Scale and the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA), which
is a computerized test of attention designed to identify symptoms
associated with ADHD. Subjects were children who were clinically
diagnosed with ADHD (n=44) and control subjects (n=31). Our results
show that both the Conners and the TOVA indicated significant
problem areas suggestive of an attention deficit in approximately
75-80% of children who were clinically diagnosed with ADHD.
However, the TOVA also found attentional problems in approximately
35-40% of control subjects, whereas none of the controls scored
abnormally on the Conners. As computerized measures are
administered more frequently as objective measures of attention,
there may be a risk of over diagnosis and treatment of "ADHD" in
normal children. A combined approach using questionnaires, clinical
evaluation, and computerized tests of attention in the assessment
of possible ADHD may provide the most accurate means of
diagnosis.
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