
ADHD Self-Report Scale
Concerned that you might have ADHD? Take this test to find out if it's worth looking into with a professional.
By Mark Travers, Ph.D.
December 6, 2024

By Mark Travers, Ph.D.
December 6, 2024
Mark Travers, Ph.D., is the lead psychologist at Awake Therapy, responsible for new client intake and placement. Mark received his B.A. in psychology, magna cum laude, from Cornell University and his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Colorado Boulder. His academic research has been published in leading psychology journals and has been featured in The New York Times and The New Yorker, among other popular publications. He is a regular contributor for Forbes and Psychology Today, where he writes about psycho-educational topics such as happiness, relationships, personality, and life meaning. Click here to schedule an initial consultation with Mark or another member of the Awake Therapy team. Or, you can drop him a note here.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It's characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, which can interfere with various aspects of life—including academic, occupational and social functioning. ADHD manifests differently from person to person; some may struggle primarily with focus and organization, while others may find it challenging to manage impulsivity or regulate their energy levels.
Reaching a diagnosis for ADHD is an important step toward understanding and managing the condition. Left undiagnosed, ADHD can contribute to struggles with self-esteem, relationships and even other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Conversely, a diagnosis opens the door to tailored strategies, treatments and resources that help individuals thrive.
The ASRSv1.1 (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) is a valuable screening tool developed by mental health experts to help individuals recognize symptoms of ADHD in their daily lives. While the ASRSv1.1 itself is not a diagnostic instrument, it nevertheless serves as a first step toward seeking professional evaluation and guidance.
The tool consists of 18 questions, split into two parts: the first six questions serve as a quick screener—targeting the most predictive symptoms of ADHD. A higher score on these initial questions suggests that a full evaluation may be necessary. The remaining 12 questions provide additional context to understand the broader scope of symptoms and their potential impact.
References: Kessler, R. C., Adler, L., Ames, M., Demler, O., Faraone, S., Hiripi, E., Howes, M. J., Jin, R., Secnik, K., Spencer, T., Ustun, T. B., & Walters, E. E. (2005). The World Health Organization Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS): a short screening scale for use in the general population. Psychological Medicine, 35(2), 245–256. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0033291704002892