A thorough evaluation of ADHD requires the recording of a detailed history from parents, a discussion with or observation of the affected child, and some backup evidence from someone outside the home. A qualified doctor can accomplish this at an appointment with you and your child. Although the diagnosis will generally be apparent from a child’s history, an interviewer most likely will ask you, your child, and your child’s teachers to complete appropriate questionnaires.
A detailed history is essential to diagnosing ADHD. It should include information about your child’s birth; illnesses; early language and motor milestones; infant, toddler, and preschool years; educational progress and motivation; homework habits; social interactions and interests; and hobbies and extracurricular activities. A family medical and social history is also important. A detailed history will often include anecdotes that give the doctor a more complete picture of your child’s past and present.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires that the child have symptoms that interfere in at least two settings. By definition, outside sources are required. Although getting a description directly from a teacher—by questionnaire or in person—is useful, parents’ description of what they have been told about classroom behavior often suffices. Sometimes, teacher questionnaires are useful not only for diagnosis, but to show parents how a teacher rates their child’s attention and behavior in a quantitative, rather than a qualitative or descriptive way (such as they would hear at a parent–teacher conference).
A doctor will also try to obtain a complete “picture” of your child. This may involve performing a physical examination, asking questions about school and outside interests, or asking your child to do some simple tasks (e.g., walking on toes and heels or drawing a picture). The objective is to develop an accurate sense of your child for diagnostic purposes.
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