Australian psychologists’ ADHD assessment methods, guideline adherence, and knowledge

Objective This study aimed to understand Australian psychologists’ assessment practices, adherence to assessment guidelines, and knowledge of diagnostic criteria for ADHD, as these factors underpin diagnostic accuracy and optimal client outcomes.Method Psychologists (N = 322) involved in ADHD assessments and/or treatment completed an online survey assessing which assessment measures they commonly used, adherence to diagnostic guidelines, and clinician knowledge of diagnostic criteria for ADHD.Results Clinicians reported very frequent use of self-report (87–97%) and lower use of other-report measures (75–89%), psychometric testing (46–54%), and highly variable use of medical assessments (0–68%). While 75% of respondents reported adhering to guidelines, adherence to recommended assessment components was found in 48.6% of cases. Clinicians who reported “sometimes” using guidelines employed more measures than those who stated they followed them consistently, or not at all. 31.6% of psychologists accurately identified all diagnostic criteria, with 23% incorrectly endorsing a non-ADHD symptom. Knowledge was significantly higher among clinicians who primarily conducted ADHD assessments.Conclusion These findings reveal gaps in ADHD criteria knowledge and inconsistent adherence to best-practice guidelines among Australian psychologists. These findings support the need for systemic improvement in ADHD-specific training and standardised assessment protocols to enhance diagnostic accuracy and client outcomes.