https://www.iampsychiatry.com/private-adhd-assessment ADHD Screening and Evaluation A screening can help a physician determine if symptoms meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD. They can conduct an exam of the body and look over school and medical records to find out if the symptoms started in childhood. They may use scales to rate the severity of symptoms. They can also conduct interviews with the patient and others close to them. Assessment of ADHD in Children If you suspect your child may have ADHD It is important to find a health care professional with expertise in diagnosing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A psychologist who specializes with children and adolescents or a pediatrician are good choices. Your child's school might have a psychologist on staff, or you can request references from other parents. To determine whether a child is suffering from ADHD the first step is to get a complete medical record and then review the old school records, and then perform a physical exam. The physical exam will look for health conditions that could be similar to ADHD symptoms. These may include vision or hearing issues. It will also look for signs of thyroid issues that can lead to an inattention or impulsive behavior. A psychiatrist, psychologist or social worker will interview both the child and his parents. They will inquire about how the child's behavior affected their home life and relationships with family members and friends. The doctor may use rating scales to help identify symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. They will also inquire whether there any allergies present in the child, particularly food allergies that may cause them to be unable to focus. The doctor should discuss with the child's school teacher about their schoolwork and performance. This will give a professional an accurate picture of the child's struggles every day. A diagnosis is given if the child is in compliance with the DSM-IV criteria for ADHD. In addition, the