Abstract
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults is a valid and impairing disorder for which psychopharmacological and psychosocial treatments are recommended. Self-report ratings scales for adult ADHD can serve several functions in clinical work with this population including screening, providing information in a comprehensive assessment, and tracking treatment-related change. The use of two symptom-based ratings scales for screening and tracking treatment progress – the Current Symptoms Scale (CSS) [5] and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) [6] – is outlined for the practicing clinician. Key issues in the assessment of adult ADHD are briefly discussed, highlighting the role of rating scales within a comprehensive assessment.
Some of the investigator time to complete this project was supported by National Institute of Mental Health grant 5R01MH69812 to Dr. Steven Safren and Dr. Susan Sprich.
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The CSS is protected by copyright and therefore is not reproduced here. It is available in Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Clinical Workbook—3rd Edition (Barkley and Murphy, 2006). The workbook also includes self-report scales assessing childhood symptoms retrospectively. Other-report forms for both current and past symptoms can be used to collect collateral information for assessment and treatment tracking. Normative data tables are also provided along with instructions on how to administer, score, and interpret results. Scales assessing other areas including medication side effects, risky driving behavior, and work performance are also provided, as are forms for use with children. Barkley and Murphy encourage clinicians to photocopy and use these forms in their practice.
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Knouse, L.E., Safren, S.A. (2009). Adult Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In: Baer, L., Blais, M.A. (eds) Handbook of Clinical Rating Scales and Assessment in Psychiatry and Mental Health. Current Clinical Psychiatry. Humana Press, Totowa, NJ. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59745-387-5_9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59745-387-5_9
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