Symptom Tests for Children

ADHD Symptoms Test for Children

Does my child have ADHD? Only a licensed clinician can diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but if you suspect that your child has symptoms of ADHD, take this self-test and share the results with your child’s doctor when requesting a thorough evaluation.

By ADHD Editorial Board Medically reviewed by Sharon Saline, Psy.D. on October 2, 2019

ADHD Symptoms in Kids: A Self-Test

Only a mental-health professional can tell for sure whether symptoms of distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity are severe and persistent enough to suggest a positive diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. But if you are concerned that your child demonstrates ADHD symptoms, take this test to better measure his or her behaviors and to understand how ADHD in children is diagnosed.

This questionnaire is designed to determine whether your child demonstrates symptoms similar to those of attention deficit disorder (ADHD). If you answer yes to a significant number of these questions, consult a physician and a licensed mental health practitioner. An accurate diagnosis can only be made through clinical evaluation. 

Based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association.

My child loses things like homework and personal belongings.
My child constantly seems to be fidgeting.
My child makes careless mistakes.
It's very difficult for my child to stay focused on homework or other tasks.
My child has problems remaining seated even when she/he is supposed to.
Even when spoken to directly, my child seems to not be paying attention.
My child interferes in the classroom because she/he has difficulty engaging in quiet activities without disturbing others.
My child fails to complete an activity before moving to the next activity.
My child forgets to do things, even when constantly reminded.
My child acts as if she/he is driven by a motor.
My child tries to avoid activities that require sustained concentration and a lot of mental effort
My child talks a lot, even when she/he has nothing much to say.
My child is disorganized and, even with my help, can't seem to learn how to become organized.
My child has difficulty waiting patiently to take turns, and butts ahead in lines or grabs toys from playmates.
My child interrupts other peoples' activities and conversations.
Even the smallest distractions can throw my child off task.
In class or at home, my child blurts out answers to questions before they are fully asked.

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