WHAT CLINICANS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE PADDS SYSTEM:

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 Childrens Clinic
Chicago, IL

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

As a certified school psychologist and Licensed Psychologist I am frequently asked to screen children for possible ADHD. My recent use of the PADDS system has been very favorable in that the children routinely remain engaged without becoming frustrated as often happens with other CPT's. This ensures a more accurate effort and help builds rapport. I plan to incorporate the PADDS system into my future clinical work.

Larry D. Long, Ed.S.
School Psychologist, ID
Licensed Psychologist, MO.

In our experience administering the PADDS Target Tests of Executive Function we observed that children found it fun and engaging. In fact several children thought the assessment was actually a game! Administering the Target Tests were quick, easy, and much more enjoyable for the clinician and child than the conventional CPT it was compared with. The computer administered instructions provided by the program were straight forward and easily understood by the children.

Alisa Manulkin, Ph.D
Former Director
University of Miami
Mailman Center for Child Study
The divisions of General Pediatrics and Clinical Psychology
of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Miami, FL.

PADDS Links

Sample Reports(pdf)

Forms and Protocols (pdf)

PADDS Research


Gianna Locascio, Psy. D.
Research Assistant
University of Miami
Mailman Center for Child Study
The divisions of General Pediatrics and Clinical Psychology
of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Miami, FL.

As a clinician working in a highly mobile (military) community, I am often confronted with a need for thorough yet quick and accurate assessments. Since incorporating PADDS into my assessment battery, not only am I able to complete assessments in a more timely manner, but the assessments are much more accurate at isolating ADHD concerns. I plan to continue using the PADDS in all my adolescent and youth assessments when attention or hyperactivity concerns are noted.

Tom Black, Ph.D.
Clinical Director
Darsey, Black and Associates

Pediatric Attention Disorders Diagnostic Screener (PADDS) is an innovative, 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.
Former Director of the Child/Adolescent ADHD Clinic
Fairleigh Dickinson University Hackensack, NJ

Associate Professor, Rutgers University
Director, Child ADHD and ADHD-Related Disorders Clinic
The Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology Piscataway, NJ.

Having used the PADDS in numerous evaluations, I have found the product to be superior to other computerized assessment tools in that children routinely report the Target Tests of Executive Functions as fun but hard when taking them. The children are instantly attracted to its presentation of vivid colors and game like quality. Because of these reactions to the measures, children are more cooperative and require minimal prodding or coercion from the examiner as is routine in the use of traditional CPTs. When using the PADDS system I can be confident that a child's results more accurately reflects their abilities rather than just how quickly they gave up on a boring task.

Bonnie Craven, MA
Professional Psychometrist
Savannah Child Study Center

The PADDS reflects a more sophisticated understanding of attentional problems and thus approaches their diagnosis with a model that fits better with the diagnosis. But it is also more attractive to the children and produces better compliance with the test, reducing likelihood of motivation as a confounding variable. We intend to use it initially as an added measure to our usual CPTs to learn more of the differences, but anticipate the PADDS replaces CPTs in our testing protocols soon.

Timothy A. Sisemore, Ph.D.
Director
CBI Counseling Center
Psychological Studies Institute
Chattanooga, TN

The Pediatric Attention Disorders Diagnostic Screener was well received by the children who participated in the study. Compared to other tests that assess the same constructs, children were attracted to the variety of colors and shapes. They remained engaged through the overall interactive nature of the tool. The instructions were clear as few clarifying questions were asked. Many participants reported that the screener was challenging though enjoyable.

Heather Landreth
Research Assistant
Psychological Studies Institute
Chattanooga, TN

As a licensed mental health provider and school psychologist I am frequently asked by primary care clinicians and schools to evaluate children for possible ADHD. The most valuable research based assessment tool that is available to clinicians to address this concern is the PADDS. Dr. Pedigo has created a valid and reliable assessment instrument that is quick and easy to administer which yields immediate results that can be used as the centerpiece of a comprehensive clinical assessment for ADHD. The PADDS is truly a state-of-the-art instrument that is invaluable to the qualified clinician to assist in accurately making this diagnosis.

Will Darsey, M. A., LPC, CCMHC
Licensed Professional Counselor
National Certified School Psychologist
Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor

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