August 17, 2007, Newsletter Issue #83: Inattention checklist

Tip of the Week

ADD/ADHD Self Test
Standard Diagnostic Criteria for
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
in Children and Adults

IMPORTANT: This is not a tool for self-diagnosis. Its purpose is simply to help you determine whether ADD/ADHD may be a factor in the behavior of the person (adult or child) you are assessing using this checklist. An actual diagnosis can be made only by an experienced professional.

Inattention (low attention span)

Six or more of the following symptoms of inattention have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities.
Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
Often does not follow through on instruction and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions.)
Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Often avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework.)\
Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys school assignments, pencils, books, or tools.)
Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
Is often forgetful in daily activities.

About LifeTips

Now one of the top on-line publishers in the world, LifeTips offers tips to millions of monthly visitors. Our mission mission is to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Expert writers earn dough for what they know. And exclusive sponsors in each niche topic help us make-it-all happen.