Topic Overview

The child who is being evaluated for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be evaluated for other disorders associated with the condition, such as learning or behavior disorders. The child may be asked questions (verbal tests) or may be given written tests to evaluate his or her intellectual abilities.

There are three tests commonly used to measure cognitive function or intelligence in children. The tests can be given to children who are unable to read or write. Tests are also given to measure a child’s ability to concentrate and complete tasks. Also, questionnaires that ask caregivers about a child’s behavior can give the doctor a clearer picture of your child. The most common tests for intellectual abilities in children are:

• Stanford-Binet.
• WISC-III or, preferably, WISC-IV. This test measures cognitive ability in children between 6 and 16.
• Kaufman Assessment and Battery for Children (K-ABC).