Scale-Description

The Vanderbilt Assessment Scale (VAS) is a tool used to assess symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other co-occurring conditions in children. It is primarily used to support diagnosis and monitor treatment progress.
The scale includes two main versions:
VAS for Teachers: Focuses on assessing ADHD symptoms and other co-occurring conditions in the school setting.
VAS for Parents: Focuses on assessing symptoms in the home environment and other characteristics that may affect the child’s functioning.

Data Analysis and Use

Data Analysis:
Data Collection: The VAS is completed by either teachers or parents, depending on the version being used. It includes questions related to ADHD symptoms, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and other relevant behaviors.
Score Calculation: Scores are calculated for each domain of the scale, such as attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety disorders and learning difficulties, are also assessed.
Score Analysis: Scores are compared to diagnostic criteria for ADHD to determine if the child meets the criteria for diagnosis. The analysis includes statistical evaluation of the scale’s reliability and validity.
Use of Data:
Diagnosis: Helps support the diagnosis of ADHD and related conditions in children.
Monitoring: Tracks treatment progress and effectiveness of interventions.
Evaluation: Provides a comprehensive view of the child’s behavior in different environments (school and home).

Purpose

The primary purpose of the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of ADHD symptoms and co-occurring conditions, both in school and home environments. The tool aims to facilitate diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of children with ADHD.

Scoring

The scoring of the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale involves evaluating its reliability and validity:
Internal Consistency: Assessed using Cronbach’s alpha to ensure that the questions on the scale are consistent and measure the same behavioral dimension.
Validity: Includes comparisons with other diagnostic scales and clinical evaluations to confirm that the scale effectively measures ADHD symptoms.

References

Wolraich, M. L., Hannah, J. N., Pinnock, T. Y., & Baumgaertel, A. (1998). A validation of the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Parent Rating Scale. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 37(6), 688-695.
Parker, J. D. A., & Rieppi, R. (1998). Assessment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children: A Review of the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Parent Rating Scale. Journal of Attention Disorders, 2(2), 93-106.
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2000). Clinical practice guideline: Diagnosis and evaluation of the child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Pediatrics, 105(5), 1158-1170.