ADHD screening aims to identify individuals who may show signs of ADHD and decide whether a more detailed evaluation is needed. It typically involves questionnaires, interviews, and behavioural observations.
Screening can't give a diagnosis — it just helps professionals like psychologists or paediatricians decide if it's worth looking deeper.
An ADHD assessment, on the other hand, is a thorough process done by a trained professional. It includes detailed interviews, observations, working directly with the child, and using standardised tests and checklists. The aim of an assessment is to find out whether a child meets the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. If they do, it leads to a formal diagnosis along with a detailed report full of recommendations, support strategies, and ideas to help the child thrive.
| Aspect | Screening | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Identify potential cases | Provide a formal diagnosis |
| Duration | 30–60 minutes | Multiple hours across sessions |
| Outcome | Recommendation for further evaluation | Formal diagnosis and treatment plan |