Adult ADHD (ASRS) Test

The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) is a concise, clinically validated self-report instrument designed to assess symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults. While ADHD is commonly associated with childhood, symptoms often persist into adulthood, though they frequently present differently than in children. Adults with ADHD may experience less overt hyperactivity but continue to struggle with difficulties in attention, organization, time management, and self-regulation. These challenges can affect multiple areas of life, including work performance, academic achievement, interpersonal relationships, and day-to-day functioning. Recognizing ADHD symptoms in adults is crucial, as early identification allows for timely interventions and strategies that can improve overall quality of life.

Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with clinical researchers, the ASRS offers an efficient and reliable screening tool for adults who may have ADHD. The scale is grounded in the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria and consists of 18 items divided into two primary subscales: Inattention and Hyperactivity-Impulsivity. The inattention subscale assesses difficulties in sustaining focus, completing tasks, organizing activities, following instructions, and avoiding careless mistakes. Adults who score highly in this area often report frequent forgetfulness, distractibility, and challenges with prioritizing responsibilities. The hyperactivity-impulsivity subscale captures behaviors such as restlessness, fidgeting, excessive talking, interrupting others, and acting without fully considering consequences. High scores in this domain reflect persistent difficulties with impulse control and self-regulation, which can impact social and professional functioning.

The ASRS is designed for ease of use and utilizes a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 0 (Never) to 4 (Very Often). The first six items, known as the ASRS Screener, have been shown to be particularly predictive of ADHD in adults and are often used in primary care and research contexts for quick evaluation. Completing the full 18-item scale typically takes less than 10 minutes, making it practical for both clinical assessments and self-screening purposes.

Extensive research supports the ASRS’s reliability, validity, and cross-cultural applicability. It demonstrates strong internal consistency and test-retest reliability, indicating that the scale produces stable and consistent results over time. ASRS scores correlate highly with clinician-administered ADHD diagnostic assessments, confirming its usefulness as a screening tool. The scale has been validated in diverse adult populations, including men and women, clinical and community samples, and individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

Importantly, the ASRS is a screening instrument rather than a definitive diagnostic tool. High scores suggest the presence of ADHD symptoms and highlight the need for further evaluation by a qualified mental health professional. When used appropriately, the ASRS can facilitate early recognition of ADHD, guide referral for comprehensive assessment, and inform treatment planning, including behavioral strategies, lifestyle adjustments, and, when appropriate, pharmacological interventions.

In summary, the ASRS is a scientifically rigorous, reliable, and user-friendly measure for assessing adult ADHD symptoms. It provides valuable insights into patterns of inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior, supporting early identification and intervention. By helping adults better understand their cognitive and behavioral tendencies, the ASRS contributes to improved functioning, productivity, and overall well-being, making it an essential tool for clinicians, researchers, and individuals seeking to address ADHD in adulthood.

References

• Kessler, R. C., Adler, L., Ames, M., Demler, O., Faraone, S., Hiripi, E., … & Walters, E. E. (2005). The World Health Organization Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS): A short screening scale for use in the general population. Psychological Medicine, 35(2), 245–256.
• Adler, L. A., Spencer, T., Faraone, S. V., Kessler, R. C., Howes, M. J., Biederman, J., & Secnik, K. (2006). Validity of pilot Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) to rate adult ADHD symptoms. Annals of Clinical Psychiatry, 18(3), 145–148.