The following study, "Misdiagnosis of ADHD when alternative diagnoses are warranted (D. Nemeth, C. Creveling, & T. Jennings)," explores the potential for misdiagnosis of ADHD in two adolescent males (ages 11 & 12) when an alternative diagnosis was warranted. Both adolescents presented to this office with complaints of attentional and behavioral difficulties. While conducting a psychoeducational evaluation, information became available suggesting the need for a more comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation. Following the administration of a comprehensive Halstead-Reitan Battery, a primary DSM-IV, Axis I diagnosis of Cognitive Disorder, NOS, was rendered.

     Such cases demonstrate the potential for misdiagnosis of ADHD when a client’s reported symptomatology is taken at face value without (e.g., rating scales) the benefit of a thorough history and neuropsychological assessment.