Attention, Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is diagnosed through clinical evaluation of the effect of child or adolescent. The child’s behavior and mental development are assessed. Other medical conditions, psychiatric conditions, and the effects of drugs as the cause of symptoms are ruled out by a series of tests.
This is done by a pediatrician, a child psychiatrist, or a qualified mental health expert. Detail history and explanation of the child’s caregiver and teachers contribute to making the diagnosis. As at now, ADHD cannot be diagnosed in a child with the use of brain imaging such as MRI, PET, or CT scan. However, there is an on-going investigation using quantitative electroencephalography to diagnose ADHD.