[Danish standardization of the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder rating scale]

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. The diagnostic classification is based on developmental anamnesis, objective examination, neuropsychological tests, observation of the child, and evaluation of the symptoms from rating scales.

The internationally known ADHD rating scale (ADHD-RS) has been translated into Danish and representative norm data from teachers and parents were collected. A total of 1,718 ADHR-RS questionnaires were distributed to 859 anonymous school children, aged 6-17 years, and a total of 1,477 ADHD-RS questionnaires were returned. Analyses were made on 781 children, 420 boys and 361 girls.

The average participation rate was 99.5% for teachers and 72.4% for parents. The factor structure was supported and internal consistency was high. The normative scores were calculated for both girls and boys in three age-groups, for parent answers and teacher answers separately.

There were significant variations in ratings of ADHD and behavioural symptoms as a function of gender and age. It is crucial, during an evaluation of a child, to compare his or her scores to gender- and age-stratified normative data. Standardized normative ADHD-RS data from school children is now available and can be implemented in a national quality database within child and adolescent mental health services. The questionnaire can support the diagnostic classification, measure symptom-load and evaluate outcome of treatment of ADHD.