The Diagnosis Procedure
Diagnosis is based on evaluation of your child's behavior in different settings and a review of his or her developmental history. Children with ADHD often become quiet and passive in new situations, so ADHD behavior may not be obvious in the clinician's office. That is one reason why the clinician will want to take a careful history of your child's development, behavior, achievement in school, and family background. The following elements should be part of your child's evaluation process.

Physical Exam
A medical doctor should give your child a thorough physical exam to rule out other physical disorders that may be causing your child's behavior. He or she will check for hearing and vision problems and other possible causes, such as anemia, thyroid problems, allergies, or nutrition problems. He or she will ask questions about your child's past medical history as well. A routine neurological examination may also be performed.

Family's Medical History
Because ADHD tends to run in families, a thorough family medical history may give clues about your child's condition.

Review of the Child's School Records
This may give the ADHD specialist clues about ongoing issues, such as learning disabilities.

Interviews with Parents, the Child, and Teacher(s)
The specialist will ask questions to determine how your child behaves in different settings and how you and your child's teachers work with the child. Questions may include:

• How long has your child been too active?
• Is your child's behavior an issue in different settings? Does your child often seem to be "off in a different world?"
• Is your child able to stick with activities or does he or she often leave tasks unfinished?
• How has disciplining your child worked?
• Are your child's behaviors interfering with friendships, school activities, or home life?

Rating Scales
Standardized rating scales, such as the Conner's or SNAP scales, filled out by parents and teachers help to determine how your child functions at home and at school compared with other children.

Psychological Tests
A variety of tests may be used to measure your child's learning ability, and social and emotional development.