Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD | Child Psychological Assessment

Childhood Disorders - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are characterised by significant difficulty concentrating, overactivity, restlessness and impulsive behaviour, present before age 7 years. These children are often rejected by peers and have difficulty socialising. Due to the extreme patience they require from adults, children with ADHD are considerably taxing for families and schools.

We take a careful and sensitive approach towards the ADHD diagnostic process. Our approach includes collecting detailed information from parents/caregivers, observation of the child, and the administration of structured psychological tests. In most cases more than one assessment session is necessary. If a diagnosis of ADHD is made, we will work together with the child’s pediatrician to formulate an appropriate treatment plan.

Characteristics

The key features of ADHD are inattention, overactivity and impulsivity. For a diagnosis, inattention and overactivity are both required and must be present in more than one context. The behavioural difficulties should be clearly distinguishable from age appropriate behaviour and should lead to significant impairment in the child's overall functioning.

ADHD is frequently first recognised when the child enters the school system. Therefore, reports from teachers are often the most important sources of information to diagnose ADHD.

The difficulties associated with inattention, overactivity and impulsivity should not be accounted for other childhood emotional disorders , such as depression, trauma or anxiety/tension.

ADHD is often co-diagnosed with other behavioural problems, mainly Conduct Disorder, and specific Learning Disabilities .

Subtypes of ADHD include:

    1) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Predominantly Inattentive Type
    2) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Predominantly Hyperactive / Impulsive Type
    3) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Combined Type

Course and Prognosis

The course of ADHD varies considerably. For most children the condition is chronic and tends to last throughout the school years. Although symptoms could persist into adulthood, most children with ADHD become functioning adults.

One of the significant risk factors associated with ADHD is the development of anti social tendencies. Exclusion from peer groups and arguments with parents and teachers can exacerbate the condition and can lead to deviant behaviour. Understanding parents, teachers and peers can work as "buffers" to protect children with ADHD.

For an enquiry

Call: 0421 812 198
Online enquiry: Contact form