Assessing Adult ADHD: An Updated Review of Rating Scales for Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Abstract

Adult ADHD is a prevalent yet underdiagnosed and undertreated condition. Assessment of ADHD is critical to understanding and managing ADHD comprehensively. Method: Scholarly articles on adult ADHD between 1996 and 2022 were reviewed using the PRISMA guidelines. ADHD rating scales with multiple citations were selected and their psychometric properties and symptom coverage were analyzed. Results: Ten rating scales, with sound psychometric properties, were identified. Out of those reviewed two (BADDS and BAARS-IV) load on the inattentive domain of ADHD, while the rest focus on a comprehensive assessment of ADHD. Only one scale (BARRS-IV) incorporates an assessment of functional impairment. Some scales though widely utilized have not been adequately examined for their sensitivity. Conclusions: Rating scales are reliable and valid, in the assessment of adult ADHD. We present a review of recent scales, with an expanded focus, to help clinicians make informed decisions on diagnosis, identifying targets and planning interventions accordingly.