When you suspect your child might have ADHD, there’s a chance you’ll come across the Connors test.
That’s because, to properly diagnose ADD/ADHD, doctors and clinicians will go through a lengthy process of interviews, observations, and evaluations. During that process, parents are often asked to complete a rating scale written by C. Keith Conners, Ph.D. This diagnostic tool is sometimes called a Connors rating scale or Connors test.
The Connors test for ADHD is just one step on the way to diagnosis. During the Connors test, the parents or caregiver will fill out a form to rate a child’s behavior. By using the ADHD Connors test, doctors can assess what type of behavior has been observed by parents over time.
For example, one question might ask, “How often does your child have trouble going to sleep at night?” The parent answers each question in a multiple choice format, filling in the appropriate answers.
There are three Conners rating scales. One is designed for parents, another is for teachers, and a third Connors test asks adolescents to rate their own behavior. Completing an ADHD Connors test takes from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on whether you’re given the short or long version of the test. Long versions of the Connors ratings scales have about 60 to 90 questions, while short versions have less than 30 questions.
Other places you might see ADHD Connors tests are during routine screenings in schools, clinics, treatment centers, pediatric offices, and other facilities. By asking parents and teachers to fill out a Connors scale, experts get a perspective of the child’s behavior from those who interact with the child every day. The Connors rating scale is one of many ways to measure hyperactivity in children and adolescents.
Just like all other psychological examinations, the Connors test for ADHD is not perfect. It should never be used as the sole tool to diagnose a child. The Connors test is one small piece of a complex evaluation and examination of an ADHD patient.
In addition to helping diagnose ADD/ADHD, the Connors test can be used in follow-up examinations. When parents and teachers periodically rate the behavior of the child with ADHD, it can be helpful to the physician. For instance, the Connors rating scale could show if ADHD treatment is effective.
Connors rating scales are not available to the general public. They only can be purchased by qualified buyers. Individuals usually must show some type of credentials before they are allowed to buy the Connors test.