How is ADHD Diagnosed?

In order to examine whether ADHD is over diagnosed we must first look at what criteria is used to diagnose the disorder. Typically psychiatrists, pediatricians, and child psychologists refer to the American Academy of Pediatrics or the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) to diagnose the disorder. These psychiatrists, pediatricians, or child psychologists should gather this information from several sources, including schools, caregivers, and parents. These health care providers should also compare this information to children of the same age, using standardized rating scales to determine the severity of the symptoms. To properly diagnose the disorder the child should also undergo several physical exams, including vision and hearing screenings. The FDA has also approved the use of Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) System, a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves. The theta/beta ratio is found to be higher in children with ADHD than those without it. (Hersher)These health care providers should also consider getting a complete medical history including any behaviors and life events such as, recent major life changes, undetected seizures, thyroid problems, sleep problems, anxiety, depression and lead toxicity. Yet, how often are all of these methods actually used to diagnose the disorder? It's hard to say. I know that I myself was simply asked if I had several of the symptoms associated with the disorder over a period of several years. I could have easily been lying, I wasn't, but that could have easily been the case. How often do psychiatrists skip several of these testing methods like my psychiatrist did? Are psychiatrists more strict when diagnosing a child rather than an adult? I certainly hope so.
(Image)