What is the Scoring Method for the Conners ADHD Rating Scale? 

The Conners ADHD rating scale is a widely used tool for assessing ADHD symptoms in children, adolescents, and adults. Understanding the scoring process for the Conners ADHD rating scale is crucial for clinicians and others who rely on it to diagnose and monitor ADHD. The Conners ADHD rating scale provides a detailed and structured approach to scoring, ensuring that the results are both reliable and valid. 

How the Conners ADHD Rating Scale is Scored 

Response Options: The Conners ADHD rating scale uses a Likert-type scale for responses, where raters (typically parents, teachers, or even the individual themselves) rate the frequency of specific behaviours. The scale typically ranges from 0 to 3: 

• 0 = Not at all true 

• 1 = Just a little true 

• 2 = Pretty much true 

• 3 = Very much true 

Respondents select the rating that best reflects the child’s behaviour in different situations. The items assess a wide range of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, as well as emotional and behavioural problems like anxiety, aggression, and mood swings. 

Subscales and Domains

The Conners ADHD rating scale has several subscales that assess different behavioural domains. These subscales include Inattention, Hyperactivity/Impulsivity, Emotional Symptoms, Conduct Problems, and Peer Relations, among others. Each of these subscales contains several items that are designed to evaluate specific aspects of behaviour, such as a child’s ability to concentrate, their impulsive actions, or their emotional regulation. 

Scoring and Interpretation

After the Conners ADHD rating scale is completed, scores are calculated for each subscale. The scores are then compared to established normative data to determine whether the child’s behaviours are outside the expected range for their age group. The higher the score, the more pronounced the symptoms of ADHD or other behavioural issues. 

Clinicians use these subscale scores to identify patterns and severity of symptoms. The overall score for the Inattention and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity subscales is particularly important for diagnosing ADHD. High scores in these areas, especially if they are consistent across different settings (home and school), can indicate the presence of ADHD. 

Total Score and Diagnostic Thresholds

The total score combines the results from all subscales and is used as part of the overall evaluation. Clinicians interpret the total score in the context of the child’s behavioural history, other assessment results, and diagnostic criteria, such as those outlined in the DSM-5. The Conners ADHD rating scale also helps identify whether other conditions, such as anxiety or conduct disorder, may be contributing to the child’s difficulties. 

For personalised advice, visit providers like ADHD Certify for consultations on understanding the scoring process of the Conners ADHD rating scale and how to use the results effectively. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Behaviour rating scales (e.g., Vanderbilt, Conners).