Accuracy of the DSM-Oriented Attention Problem Scale of the Child Behavior Checklist in Diagnosing Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Objective: The present study aimed at testing the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) including an adapted five-item DSM-Oriented Attention Problem Scale for predicting attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Methods: CBCL ratings were made both in a community sample (N = 390) and an outpatient child psychiatric sample (N = 392). Four different prediction models were analyzed in a community subsample (n = 195) and an outpatient subsample (n = 196) and cross-validated in two further subsamples of the same size. Results: The adapted DSM-Oriented Attention Problem Scale was superior to the original Attention Problem Scale in the identification of ADHD participants. A raw score of 5 to 6 on the reduced DSM-Oriented Attention Problem Scale was the best discriminator between cases and noncases. Conclusions: The adapted DSM-Oriented Attention Problem Scale of the CBCL is a useful screening instrument for ADHD with adequate diagnostic accuracy in community and outpatient samples. (J. of Att. Dis. 2010; 13(5) 454-463)