Are There Specific Assessments to Distinguish Between ADHD and RAD? 

ADHD and RAD assessments are essential for clinicians to accurately diagnose and distinguish between ADHD and RAD. While both conditions involve behavioural issues like impulsivity and emotional dysregulation, their underlying causes and treatment approaches differ significantly, requiring distinct assessment tools. 

Testing Tools for ADHD and RAD 

To differentiate between ADHD and RAD, clinicians typically use a combination of standardised testing tools and psychiatric evaluations. For ADHD, tools like the Conners Rating Scales and Vanderbilt Assessment Scales assess symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity across multiple settings (e.g., home and school). These assessments help measure the severity of ADHD behaviours and their impact on daily functioning. 

For RAD, attachment-based assessments like the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) and the Observational Record of the Caregiving Environment (ORCE) are used to evaluate emotional and relational difficulties. These tools assess the child’s ability to form and maintain healthy attachments, as well as their emotional responses to caregivers. 

Psychiatric Evaluation 

A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is also crucial for distinguishing between ADHD and RAD. Clinicians gather detailed family and medical histories, as well as observe the child’s behaviour in various contexts.  

ADHD and RAD assessments use a variety of testing tools and clinical evaluation methods to ensure an accurate diagnosis, helping clinicians provide the most effective treatment. 

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 Differential Diagnosis of ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.