Using ADHD rating scales will not detect fake ADHD and it is easy to fake poor performance on tests of reading or math ability. Neuropsychological tests can sometimes be used to detect malingering but require referral to a specialist. Researchers are developing methods to detect faking of ADHD symptoms.

Many healthcare professionals use the NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scale Diagnostic Rating Scale to help diagnose ADHD. The scale is meant for children ages 6 to 12, but people in other age groups can use it, if applicable. Different forms are available for parents and teachers.

Scoring Instructions for the VADPRS: Behaviors are counted if they are scored 2 (often) or 3 (very often). Predominantly inattentive subtype Requires 6 or more counted behaviors on items 1 through 9 and a performance problem (score of 1 or 2) in any of the items on the performance section.

Scores of 2 or 3 on a single symptom question reflect often-occurring behaviors. Scores of 4 or 5 on performance questions reflect problems in performance. The initial assessment scales, parent and teacher, have 2 components: symptom assessment and impairment in performance.

To meet DSM-IV criteria for the diagnosis of ADHD, one must have at least 6 responses of "Often" or "Very Often" (scored 2 or 3) to either the 9 inattentive or 9 hyperactive-impulsive items, or both and a score of 4 or 5 on any of the Performance items (48-55).

A T-score of more than 60 can indicate that the child may have an issue such as ADHD. A T-score greater than 60 but under 70 may indicate moderately severe issues. A T-score above 70 may be a sign that the behavioral, academic, or emotional problems are severe.

Under both the ADA and another law known as the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, ADHD is considered a disability in the United States, but with strict stipulations. For instance, ADHD is considered a protected disability if it is severe and interferes with a person's ability to work or participate in the public sector.

The Conners rating scale is a questionnaire that asks about things like behavior, work or schoolwork, and social life. The answers show your doctor which ADHD symptoms you might have and how serious they are. They can show how these symptoms affect things like grades, job, home life, and relationships.

Rating scales will ask you to score behaviors, typically on a point scale of 0-3 or 4. Usually, 0 means never, and 3 or 4 means very often and the higher the score, the more severe the symptom. Each test has a different way of adding up the scores to determine the likelihood of ADHD.