تشخیص تمارض در ارزیابی ADHD در بزرگسالان

Comparisons of two assessment measures for ADHD: the ADHD Behavior Checklist and the Integrated Visual and Auditory Continuous Performance Test (IVA CPT) were examined using undergraduates (n=44) randomly assigned to a control or a simulated malingerer condition and undergraduates with a valid diagnosis of ADHD (n=16). It was predicted that malingerers would successfully fake ADHD on the rating scale but not on the CPT for which they would overcompensate, scoring lower than all other groups. Analyses indicated that the ADHD Behavior Rating Scale was successfully faked for childhood and current symptoms. IVA CPT could not be faked on 81% of its scales. The CPT’s impairment index results revealed: sensitivity 94%, specificity 91%, PPP 88%, NPP 95%. Results provide support for the inclusion of a CPT in assessment of adult ADHD.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV, DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association, 1994) recognizes that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), can continue into adulthood. In recent years, general awareness that ADHD may persist into adulthood has increased. This may be due to many best-selling books (Hallowell & Ratey, 1993; Nadeau, 1994), and increased media coverage. Public awareness has led to a dramatic influx of adults seeking evaluation and treatment for this condition (Roy-Byrne et al., 1997). The purpose of this study is to examine diagnostic tools used in the assessment of adult ADHD and to determine whether differences can be found to alert clinicians to the possibility of malingering.