Pediatric Attention Deficit Disorders Diagnostic Screener (PADDS) is a new set of computerized assessment products that measure executive functions in children and assist in the diagnosis of children with ADHD. PADDS is a suite of ADHD screening measures that are specifically designed to improve diagnostic accuracy while minimizing the time and material expense of current ADHD assessment practices.

This multi-dimensional, evidence based approach consists of a semi-structured diagnostic interview, the Full set of the "Target Tests of Executive Functioning", 3 newly developed, innovative and psychometrically superior computer administered tests, and a unique automatically calculated predictive index scoring and reporting method using Bayesian reasoning, likelihood ratios, and graphed on a nomogram to maximize the predictive power gained by combining multiple sources of evidence.

Each of the 3 Target Tests are designed to place distinctly different demands on several key areas of executive functioning that have been identified as important to ADHD assessment. The Target Tests' superior reliability and validity, when applied incrementally in combination with other evidence sources, allows the PADDS system to raise the standard for psychometric performance and clinical utility in ADHD screening.

These "Kid Friendly" tests are easier to administer and take compared to current CPT's, as a result re-testing is also easier because most children are eager to re-take these tests. Subjects may be re-tested as many times as necessary and can help to determine treatment efficacy.

This version of PADDS is designed for children ages 6 - 12 and the cognitive tests can easily be administered by any practitioner or properly trained assistant in about 30 minutes.

All necessary documents, protocols, reports and scoring are included with the program and printable at any time, you won't need to purchase anything else. Scoring and reporting are automatically done for you by the program.

Current Psychometrics
Reliability & Validity
The Target Tests of Executive functioning have demonstrated excellent reliability estimates for internal consistency (n=611, .86) and Test-Retest Stability with two independent samples of (n=27, .85) and (n=38, .94). Solid Concurrent & Convergent Validity were demonstrated with the TOVA, CPT-II and Brown ADD Scales.

Clinical Utility
The Target Tests of Executive Functioning normative group includes 725 children age 6 to 12 years approximately evenly split between ADHD (n=395) and non-clinical (n=330). The three subtests used together have demonstrated unparalleled diagnostic screening with overall sensitivity of .88, specificity of .89 and positive predictive power of .91 and negative predictive power of .86. Across the 7 individual age bands (6-12yrs), similar degrees of clinical utility are maintained. System requirements are:

PC or notebook computer with Windows 2K, XP, or Vista.
Sound systen with speakers or headphones (for instruction)
Optical mouse recommended (no trackball or touchpads)

Testimonials
"In over thirty –five years I have never come across an AD/HD screening test that is so exciting and best of all it is evidence based. The PADDS incremental plotting “wows” parents so they can visually compare their child’s performance in concert with their own results as well their child’s teacher’s’. The utility of the PADDS for pre/post medication testing is also invaluable. I look forward to using this test in the years to come. "
Steven Spector, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist
Independent Practice
Adjunct Assistant Professor , Departments of Pediatrics/ Psychiatry
Wayne State University School of Medicine
http://therapist.psychologytoday.com/51817

"The PADDS system represents a clear advancement over existing computerized performance tests for ADHD. The colors, sounds, and videogame-like format of the Target Tests appeal to children without compromising the sensitivity and specificity of the tests. The reporting feature of the PADDS system also signals the future of evidence-based diagnostic screening. To my knowledge, the PADDS system is the first of its kind to include actuarial tools (diagnostic likelihood ratios, a nomogram, and posttest probability) in its reporting feature. This user-friendly reporting feature provides a step-by-step process for understanding how results from behavioral reports and the Target Tests influence the probability of ADHD. I have found this feature to be invaluable when screening for ADHD, as well as for diagnostic decision making when used as part of a comprehensive evaluation."
Jason J. Washburn, Ph.D. ABPP
Chicago Children’s Clinic
Chicago, IL

"Pediatric Attention Disorders Diagnostic Screener (PADDS) is an innovative and highly reliable and valid screening instrument for children at risk for and with attention disorders. PADDS includes three brief and highly engaging target subtests that measure important aspects of executive functioning. I applaud the authors for developing this highly sensitive and valuable instrument! "
Linda A. Reddy, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Rutgers University
Director, Child ADHD and ADHD-Related Disorders Clinic
The Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology Piscataway, NJ