Should Relative-Age Adjustment Reduce Overdiagnosis? 

Yes, relative-age ADHD overdiagnosis is a growing concern, particularly in school settings where children born just before the school entry cutoff may be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. School entry age plays a significant role in how children are assessed, as younger children in a class often exhibit more developmental immaturity compared to their older peers. This gap can lead to misinterpretation of their behaviour as ADHD symptoms, when they may simply be struggling with age-related challenges. 

Relative-age ADHD overdiagnosis involves considering a child’s age in relation to their classmates when assessing behavioural concerns. By adjusting for the differences in maturity between the youngest in class and oldest children in a class, we can reduce the risk of overdiagnosis and ensure that only those who truly meet the criteria for ADHD receive a diagnosis. 

Why Adjusting for Relative-Age Matters 

Here’s why relative-age adjustment could help reduce ADHD overdiagnosis: 

Developmental differences  

Younger children may have more difficulty focusing or sitting still, which could be misinterpreted as ADHD. 

Academic pressure  

Children who are younger than their classmates may struggle more with academic expectations, leading to higher referrals for ADHD assessment. 

Fairer evaluations  

Considering a child’s relative age ensures that behavioural issues are assessed in context, preventing unnecessary diagnoses and interventions. 

In conclusion, education policy should reflect these developmental differences to help reduce unnecessary ADHD diagnoses in younger children. A fairer approach to assessment can lead to more accurate diagnosis and better support for children. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Overdiagnosis vs. Underdiagnosis in ADHD.