1 What is the ADHD — DSM-5 Criteria?
The ADHD — DSM-5 Criteria is a psychosocial scoring tool used in paediatric practice. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Score the inattention list, then repeat for hyperactivity-impulsivity. It scores 18 criteria and interprets the total across 2 bands, so the number always arrives with the severity it implies rather than on its own. In PediAid each criterion is shown as a labelled option with the weight it carries, so the total can be checked rather than taken on trust.
3 Formula & method
The score sums 18 criteria: Fails to give close attention to details / careless mistakes; Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play; Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly; Does not follow through on instructions; fails to finish work; Difficulty organising tasks and activities; Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort; Loses things necessary for tasks or activities; Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli; Forgetful in daily activities; Fidgets, taps hands/feet, squirms in seat; Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected; Runs about or climbs where inappropriate (or feels restless); and 6 further criteria. Totals are then banded: any score - Below threshold: fewer than 6 in a single domain. Note: the count must reach 6 WITHIN one domain (first 9 = inattention, last 9 = hyperactivity-impulsivity), not across both; 6 criteria met or more - Threshold met: ≥6 criteria in EITHER domain (inattention OR hyperactivity-impulsivity) supports ADHD, if present ≥6 months, in ≥2 settings, with onset before age 12. Refer for full assessment.
- DSM-5 threshold: 6 or more of the 18 criteria listed.
- A diagnosis also requires clinically significant distress or impairment, the required duration, and exclusion of substance use or another condition. Screening aid only - not a diagnosis.
- Criteria 1-9 = inattention; criteria 10-18 = hyperactivity-impulsivity.
- Age ≥17 y and adults: threshold drops to 5 in a domain.
- Requires onset of several symptoms before age 12 and impairment in ≥2 settings.
4 Frequently asked questions
How many criteria does the ADHD — DSM-5 Criteria use?
18. They are Fails to give close attention to details / careless mistakes; Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play; Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly; Does not follow through on instructions; fails to finish work; Difficulty organising tasks and activities; Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort; and others.
What do the bands of the ADHD — DSM-5 Criteria mean?
The total is interpreted as: any score - Below threshold: fewer than 6 in a single domain. Note: the count must reach 6 WITHIN one domain (first 9 = inattention, last 9 = hyperactivity-impulsivity), not across both; 6 criteria met or more - Threshold met: ≥6 criteria in EITHER domain (inattention OR hyperactivity-impulsivity) supports ADHD, if present ≥6 months, in ≥2 settings, with onset before age 12. Refer for full assessment.
Does the score replace clinical judgement?
No. It is a structured way to record and communicate severity. A clinician concerned about a child should act on that concern regardless of the total.
Where does this score come from?
DSM-5 threshold: 6 or more of the 18 criteria listed.
Does it work offline?
Yes. Score definitions are bundled with the PediAid app, so the score computes without a connection.