Use of the Differential Ability Scales for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Abstract

The validity of the Differential Ability Scales (DAS) was assessed among children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and a matched control sample. The sample included 45 children with ADHD (69% with comorbidity) and 45 controls matched by age, gender, ethnicity, and parental educational level. Multivariate analysis of variance univariate test results and d ratios yielded statistically and clinically significant group differences on the Recall of Digits and Recall of Objects-Immediate diagnostic subtests. Discriminant function analyses indicated that the three Diagnostic Subtests accurately classified 67% of the sample with 69% correctly identified as controls and 64% correctly identified as ADHD. Recall of Digits was found to make the most significant contribution overall to the discriminant function. At a cut-ff score of 40, Recall of Digits yielded high specificity and low sensitivity and moderate positive predictive power. Implications of results are discussed.

Development and validation of an attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) executive function and behavior rating screening battery

“…When using the proposed screen, practitioners should carefully consider the setting and population as this will influence the number of children who exhibit ADHD-related symptoms and, as a result, impact the ADHD prevalence rate (Rowland et al, 2002). Given the low prevalence of ADHD, even with highly valid screeners or tests, a high proportion of misclassifications may result (Reddy, Braunstein, & Dumont, 2008). The decision to use or not use a particular cutoff score should be carefully considered in light of the assessment purpose (e.g., screening vs. evaluation), the setting population, and concern that the screen could result in ADHD false positives or negatives.…”