Development and Validation of the ADHD Symptom and Side Effect Tracking - Baseline Scale (ASSET-BS): A Novel Short Screening Measure for ADHD in Clinical Populations

Abstract

Objective The aim was to develop and test a novel screen of adult ADHD, with a focus on clinical use. We designed a series of three studies to accomplish this aim. Method Study One (n = 155) and Study Two (n = 591) collected data via surveys to conduct exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses respectively. Study Three analyzed the scale's psychometrics in a clinical sample (n = 151). Results Study One and Study Two identified a 10-item scale with a two-factor structure. Study Three found good discriminant validity, sensitivity = 80.0%, specificity = 80.2%, and convergent validity with the Brown Executive Function/Attention Scales, r (131) = .76, p < .001, and the Conner’s Adult ADHD Rating Scales r (131) = .71, p < .001. Conclusion The scale demonstrated effectiveness in screening for ADHD in a psychiatric outpatient population. Its results may be used to identify patients that may benefit from thorough ADHD diagnostic procedures. Keywords: adult ADHD, assessment, decision making