ASRS v5: The Updated ADHD Screening Tool
The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) v5 represents an updated iteration of the original ASRS v1.1 screening tool. Building on the foundation of the original, ASRS v5 incorporates refinements and updates based on ongoing research and clinical feedback.
Quick Facts
- • Updated version of the original ASRS v1.1
- • 18 questions total (6 Part A + 12 Part B)
- • Incorporates refinements based on newer research
- • Maintains the same core structure as v1.1
- • Designed to reflect evolving understanding of ADHD
What is ASRS v5?
ASRS v5 is an evolution of the original ASRS v1.1 screening tool. While maintaining the same fundamental structure and approach, v5 incorporates updates that reflect:
- Advances in ADHD research since 2005
- Clinical feedback from healthcare professionals
- Refinements to question wording for clarity
- Updated understanding of ADHD presentation in adults
- Improved alignment with current diagnostic criteria
Structure of ASRS v5
Like ASRS v1.1, ASRS v5 maintains the same two-part structure:
Part A: Core Symptoms (Questions 1-6)
Part A continues to focus on the most predictive core symptoms of ADHD. These six questions assess the critical symptoms that must be present for an ADHD diagnosis, with potential refinements in wording or emphasis.
Scoring: A positive Part A result requires 4 or more symptoms marked as "Often" or "Very Often" in the past 6 months (same as v1.1).
Part B: Additional Symptoms (Questions 7-18)
Part B includes 12 additional symptoms that provide comprehensive context for ADHD assessment. These questions may include updated wording or slight modifications to better capture the full range of ADHD-related challenges.
Purpose: Part B provides additional context and helps identify the full range of ADHD symptoms, supporting the Part A screening result.
Key Differences from ASRS v1.1
What's New in v5?
- Refined Question Wording: Questions may be updated for clarity and precision
- Research-Based Updates: Incorporates findings from ADHD research since 2005
- Clinical Feedback Integration: Reflects input from healthcare professionals
- Modern Understanding: Aligns with current understanding of adult ADHD
- Maintained Compatibility: Core scoring and structure remain consistent with v1.1
Scoring System
ASRS v5 uses the same frequency-based scoring system as v1.1. Each question asks how often symptoms occurred in the past 6 months, with five possible responses:
- Never
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Very Often
Scoring Consistency
ASRS v5 maintains scoring consistency with v1.1:
- Part A scoring rules remain the same
- Positive result threshold: 4 or more points out of 6
- Part B provides supporting context
- Results are comparable across versions
When to Use ASRS v5
ASRS v5 may be preferred when:
- You want the most current version of the assessment
- Your healthcare provider recommends the updated version
- You're interested in refinements based on recent research
- You want to compare results with the updated tool
- You're conducting follow-up assessments and want consistency with newer standards
ASRS v5 vs ASRS v1.1
Understanding the differences helps you choose the right version for your needs:
| 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 |
| Updates | Original version | Refined wording, research updates |
| Best For | Standard screening, research | Updated assessment approach |
| Scoring | Standard ASRS scoring | Compatible with v1.1 |
Which should you choose? Both ASRS v1.1 and v5 are valid screening tools. ASRS v1.1 offers extensive research validation and widespread clinical recognition. ASRS v5 provides an updated approach that may reflect newer research insights. Consider your specific needs, whether your healthcare provider has a preference, and whether you want the most established or most current version.
Key Advantages of ASRS v5
Why Choose v5?
- Updated Research Base: Incorporates findings from ADHD research since 2005
- Refined Questions: Potentially improved clarity and precision in wording
- Modern Approach: Reflects current understanding of adult ADHD
- Clinical Feedback: Incorporates input from healthcare professionals
- Forward-Looking: Represents the evolution of ADHD screening tools
- Compatible Scoring: Results remain comparable to v1.1
Limitations and Considerations
Important Notes
- ASRS v5 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
- May have less extensive research validation than v1.1 (due to being newer)
- Clinical adoption may vary by region or healthcare system
Scientific Foundation
ASRS v5 builds upon the scientific foundation established by ASRS v1.1, which was developed by the World Health Organization and Harvard Medical School. The original research and validation studies provide the basis for both versions.
Primary Reference (Original ASRS): 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.
Note: ASRS v5 represents an evolution of the original tool. For the most current information about v5-specific research and validation, consult recent publications and official sources.