Attention, please! Clinical reasoning and decision-making for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Allison E. Gornik, Rachel A. Northrup, Alison Pritchard

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders typically diagnosed in childhood and adolescence. In this chapter we begin by setting the stage for the practical discussion of clinical decision-making recommendations to follow through discussing the scientist-practitioner framework under which we practice, and how it influences our clinical decision-making. This is followed by a discussion of the role that the referral question and source play in the clinical decision-making process. A brief overview of the state of the science in ADHD follows. These sections lay the foundation for the remaining three sections of the chapter which detail clinical reasoning considerations regarding (1) the diagnostic framework of ADHD, (2) assessment of ADHD, and (3) treatment of ADHD. Considerations around the diagnostic framework that warrant discussion include the dimensional nature and lack of specificity of symptoms, the role of typical neurodevelopment, complications related to the amount of variability in inattention, and patient age. Discussion of assessment will address common assessment components such as clinical interview, rating scales, and performance-based testing. The value of these components in differential diagnosis is covered, as is how to go about putting together an assessment battery and what to do when results of the various components of your battery do not agree with one another. Finally, the section on treatment highlights clinical decision-making considerations for medication, behavioral treatment, school supports, and lifestyle management, as well as how to decide which treatment options are most appropriate for which patients. Two case examples illustrate the concepts discussed throughout.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationClinical Reasoning and Decision-Making Process
Subtitle of host publicationChild and Adolescent Assessment and Intervention
PublisherElsevier
Pages149-207
Number of pages59
ISBN (Electronic)9780443135521
ISBN (Print)9780443135538
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2024

Keywords

  • ADHD
  • assessment
  • clinical decision-making
  • clinical reasoning
  • treatment

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Psychology

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