Description

The Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Parent Rating Scale (VADPRS) is a widely used diagnostic tool designed to help clinicians assess symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children. It is a parent-reported questionnaire that evaluates behaviors related to ADHD and comorbid conditions, such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder, and anxiety or depression.

The scale includes items that measure both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity based on criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). Parents are asked to rate their child’s behavior in different contexts, such as home or school, using a 4-point Likert scale. The assessment also includes items to evaluate the impact of the child’s behaviors on academic performance, peer relationships, and family interactions.

Data Analysis and Use of VADPRS

Data Collection:

Parents rate each symptom based on its frequency over the past 6 months, using the following scale:

0 = Never

1 = Occasionally

2 = Often

3 = Very Often

The VADPRS consists of 55 questions, divided into:

9 items related to inattention

9 items related to hyperactivity/impulsivity

8 items related to oppositional-defiant disorder

14 items related to anxiety and depression

The remaining items assess academic performance and relationships.

Scoring

The total score helps clinicians determine whether the child meets the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD. In general:

Inattention: A score of 6 or higher in the inattention items indicates potential ADHD inattentive type.

Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: A score of 6 or higher in the hyperactivity/impulsivity items may indicate ADHD hyperactive-impulsive type.

Combined Type: When both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity scores are 6 or higher, the child may meet the criteria for ADHD combined type.

Subscale Analysis:

Each symptom category (inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, ODD, anxiety/depression) can be analyzed separately to explore potential comorbid conditions. Clinicians also assess how these behaviors impact the child’s functioning in academic, social, and family contexts, based on the last few items.

Statistical Use:

Researchers can use statistical analysis techniques such as:

Factor analysis: To identify underlying dimensions (factors) of ADHD symptoms.

Reliability analysis (Cronbach’s alpha): To measure the internal consistency of the scale.

Correlation analysis: To examine the relationship between different subscales (e.g., inattention and hyperactivity).

Regression analysis: To predict academic or social outcomes based on ADHD symptom severity.

Objective

The main goal of the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Parent Rating Scale (VADPRS) is to:

Diagnose ADHD in children by identifying the presence and severity of core symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Evaluate comorbid conditions like oppositional defiant disorder and anxiety.

Measure the impact of these symptoms on a child’s academic performance and relationships.

By systematically evaluating these factors, clinicians can create a comprehensive profile of the child’s behavioral issues, which aids in accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning.

Calibration

The calibration or standardization of the VADPRS ensures that the scale is valid and reliable across different populations. This involves:

Validation studies: Comparing VADPRS scores with clinical diagnoses or other established measures of ADHD to confirm its effectiveness.

Normative data: Developing age-appropriate and culturally relevant norms that provide a benchmark for interpreting individual scores.

Cut-off points: Establishing cut-off scores based on DSM-5 criteria to guide diagnostic decisions.

Cultural Adaptation: Ensuring that the VADPRS is appropriate for use in various cultural and linguistic contexts, with adaptations if necessary.

References

Wolraich, M. L., Lambert, W., Doffing, M. A., Bickman, L., Simmons, T., & Worley, K. (2003). Psychometric properties of the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Parent Rating Scale in a referred population. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 28(8), 559-567.

Bard, D. E., Wolraich, M. L., Neas, B., Doffing, M., & Beck, L. (2013). The psychometric properties of the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Teacher Rating Scale in a community population. Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, 34(2), 83-93.

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.