We’re thrilled to be able to offer Qb Testing from Qbtech. The QbTest is what’s known as an “objective ADHD test” – a tool that is designed to be free of subjectivity that can help providers diagnose ADHD in patients as part of a broader diagnostic strategy.
The QbTest is a test that measures specific movements and motions as a person completes a repetitive – yet easy – task. Researches have discovered that those with ADHD are significantly more likely to exhibit certain behaviors when they’re completing these tasks compared to those without ADHD. This test then makes it possible to measure ADHD objectively using data, rather than through interviews and other less objective means.
Objectivity in Diagnostics
One reason that many people go undiagnosed with their ADHD is because ADHD does not manifest the same way for everyone. Some people experience it more cognitively and internally, struggling to focus while otherwise appearing neurotypical on the surface. Others struggle to sit still, but may have developed cognitive strategies to address executive functioning issues. All of this can make it harder to get a diagnosis.
Similarly, a person without ADHD may show signs of ADHD, and vice versa. Lack of sleep can mimic ADHD symptoms. Some people simply struggle with focus but do not otherwise have ADHD. Others may be disruptive in a classroom setting, but it’s caused by extroversion or other difficulties unrelated to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Ask any parent of an active 5 year old if they suspect their child has ADHD, and the number of parents that will say “Yes” will be much higher than the prevalence within the population. Many things can appear to be ADHD, and many ADHD symptoms can be masked to look like something else.
Since ADHD requires a diagnosis to be treated successfully, objectivity is critically important. For example, Ritalin – one of the most effective medications we have for ADHD – can have a paradoxical effect in those without it. For those with ADHD, Ritalin may improve focus and motivation, but for those without, Ritalin may *decrease* focus and make it harder to concentrate.
This is why an “objective” test matters. We need to have ways to tell that someone might have ADHD that do not require a person’s opinion. We can train people to provide helpful feedback in diagnosing ADHD, but we also know that feedback can be wrong. Accurate diagnosis is incredibly important, and the best way to reduce error and make sure that you’re providing the right diagnosis to the right people is to have an objective test – a test that has no biases and no opinions, where data tells you what you need to know.
Learn More About ADHD Testing and More
That said, even an objective, extensively researched test is an imperfect measurement. We do not diagnose ADHD based on Qbtests alone. We look holistically at many factors, and may include subjective information in order to get a complete picture and understanding of a person’s life.
For those that would like to learn more about ADHD testing and diagnosis, please feel free and reach out to Skycloud Mental Health today.