In recent years, more individuals have become interested in determining whether they have Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Symptoms of ADHD can be categorised into three types: the hyperactive type (e.g., fidgeting, impatience, impulsivity, talkativeness, and constant movement), the inattentive type (e.g., difficulty focusing, procrastination, missed deadlines, misplacing items, and frequently spacing out), or the combined type.
Children may seek help if they display behavioural challenges in school (e.g., being overly active) or struggle academically, often performing below their potential despite having a normal IQ. In adults, ADHD may manifest as difficulty meeting deadlines, procrastination, or feeling underperforming relative to their capabilities. Early assessment and intervention can help restore cognitive function, leading to better performance in school or work.
However, when individuals visit a psychiatrist for an ADHD evaluation, there may be an unconscious recall bias. Patients, having read about ADHD or watched videos on social media platforms (e.g., TikTok), may easily recall incidents that seem to confirm their diagnosis. This often results in an “aha” moment or a feeling of “that’s me.” Therefore, during a clinical consultation, it’s crucial for psychiatrists to gather information from multiple sources to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Various tools are available for assessing ADHD, with one of the most commonly used being the Conners’ Continuous Performance Test (CPT 3). This well-researched tool has been validated in numerous scientific journals and is used globally, including in major public hospitals in Singapore.
The CPT is a computer-based test designed for individuals aged 8 and older, lasting approximately 14 minutes, plus an additional 1-minute practice session. During the test, the individual must respond to specific stimuli on the screen by pressing the spacebar. The task is intentionally designed to be “boring” to measure cognitive domains, such as attention and impulsivity. The results are compared against a normative sample of individuals of the same age and sex to identify significant deviations.
At the conclusion of the test, the program evaluates several key performance indicators, including omissions, commissions, and hit reaction time. These metrics are highly technical and should only be interpreted by a trained specialist.
While the Conners’ CPT is valuable in ADHD assessments, it cannot diagnose ADHD on its own. It must be used alongside other diagnostic tools, including a clinical interview. For children, additional input from parents and teachers, such as rating scales and questionnaires, is also necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Beyond ADHD, the Conners’ CPT is used to assess cognitive function in individuals with other neurological conditions, including those recovering from stroke, head injuries, or dementia.
It’s important to note that the test is not “fail-proof.” External factors such as noisy environments, poor sleep, dyslexia, or low IQ can affect the validity of the results.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment can typically be completed in one to two sessions with a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist.
If you’re curious about whether you may have ADHD and would like to explore treatment options, including medications, we encourage you to contact us for a consultation.
If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD might be affecting your daily life, a thorough assessment is the first step toward clarity and support. Our experienced psychiatrists and psychologists at Private Space Medical use evidence-based tools, including the Conners’ CPT, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward understanding and managing your symptoms with confidence.
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Dr Victor Kwok
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
