What is the BRIEF assessment for executive function? 

The BRIEF executive function test is a widely used assessment tool designed to evaluate executive functions in children and adolescents. The test, which stands for Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function, measures how well a child can plan, organise, manage time, and control impulses in everyday settings. It is particularly useful for identifying executive dysfunction, a common issue in children with ADHD. 

The BRIEF assessment ADHD focuses on a range of executive functions, such as working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility. Parents, teachers, and caregivers typically fill out the questionnaire to provide insights into a child’s behaviour across various environments, including school and home. This helps to give a clear picture of how ADHD symptoms may be impacting the child’s executive functioning. 

Common Symptoms 

Executive Function Questionnaire 

The executive function questionnaire within the BRIEF assessment includes several scales, such as the “Inhibit” and “Shift” scales, which specifically measure the ability to control impulses and shift between tasks. These areas are often areas of difficulty for children with ADHD, making the BRIEF a valuable diagnostic tool. 

The Behaviour Rating Inventory ADHD is also often used in conjunction with the BRIEF to gather a comprehensive understanding of a child’s executive functioning and how ADHD affects their day-to-day behaviour. 

The BRIEF executive function test helps clinicians, educators, and parents identify areas where children may need additional support, ultimately leading to more targeted interventions and improved outcomes for children with ADHD. 

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 Executive Function Deficits.

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

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.