Research project Assessing ADHD
ADHD is one of the most prevalent psychiatric conditions, consuming a large proportion of resources in psychiatric care, often accompanied by long waiting lists to receive proper assessment.
Many clinicians and parents view the diagnostic process as too extensive, taking time from treatment and interventions. In addition, assessments may be perceived as too focused on diagnostic criteria to be fully helpful.
Systematic research on how assessment procedures can be optimized is lacking. It is largely unknown whether brief assessment protocols including medical history, diagnostic interview, and rating scales differ from comprehensive protocols that also encompass neuropsychological testing. Further, biomarkers such as heart rate variability and pupil dilation have been proposed as indicators of diagnostic status.
Project description
The aim of this study is to gain knowledge about diagnostic processes to enable valid, reliable, and cost-effective ADHD assessments. Using a randomized controlled trial design 140 children aged 7–17 years, referred to the child and adolescent psychiatric unit in Uppsala, we will examine differences between a brief and a comprehensive ADHD assessment protocol. The project will provide important knowledge for patients and clinicians, and inform our understanding of mechanisms underpinning ADHD.
Project members
Project managers
Matilda Frick
Associate Professor
Johan Isaksson
Adjunct senior lecturer, Psychologist
Members
Johan Lundin Kleberg
Associate Professor
Filipa Sampaio
Researcher