Psychology professor calls for more thorough diagnostic assessments for ADHD

May 19, 2026 - 22:31

A growing wave of ADHD diagnoses is sweeping through clinics and doctor's offices, yet researchers remain uncertain about the root cause of this surge. While greater public awareness and recent shifts in diagnostic criteria are likely contributors, one psychology professor is now warning that the process itself may be flawed. The expert argues that many assessments are too superficial, leading to potential misdiagnosis and unnecessary medication.

The professor, who has studied attention disorders for decades, points out that a proper evaluation should not rely solely on a brief questionnaire or a single office visit. Instead, it must involve a comprehensive review of a patient's developmental history, input from family members or teachers, and a careful ruling out of other conditions like anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders. These conditions can mimic ADHD symptoms, and without a thorough investigation, a person might be treated for the wrong issue.

This call for more rigorous testing comes at a time when the number of adults seeking help has skyrocketed. Social media trends and online self-assessments have made it easier for people to self-identify, but the professor cautions that this does not replace a clinical evaluation. The goal is not to discourage people from seeking help, but to ensure that those who truly have ADHD receive the right support, while others are not mislabeled. The professor emphasizes that a correct diagnosis is the foundation for effective treatment, and a rushed one can do more harm than good.