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Do Doctors Use Rating Scales Like the ASRS or Vanderbilt? 

PostedOctober 15, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, many doctors use ADHD rating scales as part of the diagnostic process. These tools help identify patterns of behaviour that align with ADHD and provide a structured way to assess symptoms. The ASRS ADHD test and Vanderbilt ADHD questionnaire are two of the most common scales used, depending on whether the assessment is for an adult or a child. 

The ASRS ADHD test (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) is typically used for adults and focuses on attention, organisation, restlessness, and impulsivity. It consists of a short series of questions designed to screen for common symptoms. For children, doctors often use the Vanderbilt ADHD questionnaire, which collects feedback from parents and teachers about the child’s behaviour across different environments. 

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How It Helps the Diagnosis 

Using ADHD rating scales provides structure and consistency in how symptoms are evaluated. 

Identify Symptom Frequency 

These tools help determine how often symptoms occur and how much they interfere with daily life. 

Cross-Environment Input 

Especially with the Vanderbilt ADHD questionnaire, input from multiple adults provides a fuller picture of the child’s behaviour. 

Support Clinical Judgment 

While rating scales don’t confirm a diagnosis alone, they offer valuable support alongside interviews and observations. 

By including ADHD rating scales like the ASRS or Vanderbilt, doctors can make more informed and balanced decisions during the assessment process. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

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Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
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.