ADHD/Learning Disabilities

NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF CHILDREN WITH ADHD

ADHD FACTS
~ It is estimated that 3-5% of all children are diagnosed as having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

~ Children suffering from ADHD are at risk for academic and social failure, as well as emotional difficulties.

~ With early diagnosis and treatment, these children can succeed.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
-Difficulty paying attention
-Forgetfulness
-Excessive talking and/or interrupting
-Difficulty organizing and/or completing tasks
-Frequent fidgeting
-Easily Distracted
-Impulsiveness
-Difficulty remaining seated

DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS
Problems with attention may also be associated with other medical conditions including:
-Seizure Disorder
-Hearing and/or vision difficulties
-Concussion
-Thyroid Disorders
-Diabetes
-Mood Disorders

Proper diagnosis of coexisting and/or similar disorders improves treatment efforts and
prognosis.

ADHD AND COEXISTING DISORDERS
As many as 40-60% of children with ADHD have at least one other major disorder.

Common coexisting disorders include:
-Disruptive-Behavior Disorders
-Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
-Tics and/or Tourette's Disorder
-Learning Disabilities
-Emotional disorders (e.g., low self esteem, depression, anxiety)

Neuropsychological Assessment of ADHD
There is no single test to diagnose ADHD. Rather, a comprehensive approach is necessary to arrive at a proper diagnosis, rule out other causes of symptoms, and determine the presence or absence of coexisting disorders. The neuro- psychological evaluation is an
important component of such an approach.

The neuropsychological evaluation is tailored to the individual needs of the child and may involve the assessment of intelligence, academic ability (reading, writing, and mathematics), attention, language, problem solving, planning, impulse control, motor skills, and emotional functioning. In addition, parent and teacher ratings are routinely utilized to gather collateral information.

Upon completion of the evaluation, a written report is prepared that summarizes the findings and offers suggestions for remediation and/or management. The findings are discussed during a feedback session with Dr. Theroux. This information can be incorporated into the child's individualized education plan (IEP) to assist in school
performance.