ASRS v1.1: The Original ADHD Screening Tool
Note: We also offer ASRS v5
ADHD Tester provides both ASRS v1.1 and ASRS v5 assessments. You can choose either version when taking the test.Learn more about ASRS v5 →
The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) v1.1 is the original, scientifically validated screening tool developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Harvard Medical School. It remains the most widely used and researched ADHD screening instrument for adults worldwide.
Quick Facts
- • Developed by WHO and Harvard Medical School (2005)
- • 18 questions total (6 Part A + 12 Part B)
- • Most widely used ADHD screening tool globally
- • Scientifically validated in multiple languages and cultures
- • Used by healthcare professionals worldwide
What is ASRS v1.1?
ASRS v1.1 was developed in 2005 as part of the World Health Organization's Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) initiative. It was designed to provide a quick, reliable way to screen for adult ADHD in both clinical and research settings.
The tool has been extensively validated and is considered the "gold standard" for adult ADHD screening. It's been translated into multiple languages and used in studies across different cultures and populations.
Structure of ASRS v1.1
Part A: Core Symptoms (Questions 1-6)
Part A focuses on the core symptoms that are most predictive of ADHD. These six questions assess the most critical symptoms that must be present for an ADHD diagnosis:
- Difficulty completing final details of projects
- Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- Problems remembering appointments or obligations
- Avoiding or delaying tasks requiring sustained mental effort
- Fidgeting or squirming when seated
- Feeling overly active or driven by a motor
Scoring: A positive Part A result requires 4 or more symptoms marked as "Often" or "Very Often" in the past 6 months.
Part B: Additional Symptoms (Questions 7-18)
Part B includes 12 additional symptoms that support an ADHD diagnosis. These questions provide a more comprehensive picture of ADHD-related challenges:
- Making careless mistakes
- Difficulty maintaining attention
- Difficulty concentrating on conversations
- Misplacing items
- Being easily distracted
- Restlessness and difficulty relaxing
- Impulsive behaviors (talking too much, interrupting, difficulty waiting)
Purpose: Part B provides additional context and helps identify the full range of ADHD symptoms, though it's Part A that determines the screening result.
Scoring System
ASRS v1.1 uses a frequency-based scoring system. Each question asks how often symptoms occurred in the past 6 months, with five possible responses:
- Never
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Very Often
Part A Scoring Rules
For Part A questions, responses are scored as follows:
- "Often" or "Very Often": Always counts as 1 point
- "Sometimes": Counts as 1 point for questions 1, 2, and 3 only
- "Never" or "Rarely": 0 points
A positive Part A result requires 4 or more points out of 6.
Why ASRS v1.1 Remains Popular
Key Advantages
- Extensive Research: Over 15 years of validation studies and real-world use
- Global Recognition: Used by healthcare systems worldwide
- Proven Reliability: High sensitivity and specificity in clinical studies
- Cultural Adaptability: Validated across multiple cultures and languages
- Clinical Integration: Widely accepted by healthcare professionals
- Research Standard: Used as the reference tool in many ADHD studies
When to Use ASRS v1.1
ASRS v1.1 is ideal for:
- Initial ADHD screening in clinical settings
- Research studies requiring standardized assessment
- Self-assessment when you want the most widely recognized tool
- When healthcare providers specifically request ASRS v1.1 results
- Baseline assessments for tracking symptoms over time
Limitations and Considerations
Important Notes
- ASRS v1.1 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument
- Designed for adults 18 years and older only
- Self-report assessments have inherent limitations
- Results may be influenced by mood, stress, or other conditions
- Only a qualified healthcare professional can diagnose ADHD
- Cultural and individual differences may affect responses
ASRS v1.1 vs ASRS v5
While ASRS v1.1 remains the most widely used version, ASRS v5 represents an updated iteration. Key differences include:
| Feature | ASRS v1.1 | ASRS v5 |
|---|---|---|
| Year Developed | 2005 | More Recent |
| Number of Questions | 18 | 18 |
| Research Base | Extensive (15+ years) | Growing |
| Clinical Adoption | Very High | Increasing |
| Best For | Standard screening, research | Updated assessment approach |
Which should you choose? Both versions are valid screening tools. ASRS v1.1 offers the advantage of extensive research and clinical recognition, while ASRS v5 may incorporate refinements based on newer research. Consider your specific needs and whether your healthcare provider has a preference.
Scientific References
Primary Reference: Kessler, R. C., et al. (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.
Official ASRS v1.1 Manual: Available from the World Health Organization and Harvard Medical School
Download Official ASRS v1.1: Official ASRS v1.1 PDF