Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1)
WHO-developed screening tool for ADHD symptoms in adults.
Last reviewed: May 2026
The ASRS was developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) Composite International Diagnostic Interview as a screening tool for adult ADHD. It assesses the frequency of 18 DSM-IV-TR symptoms of ADHD (9 inattentive, 9 hyperactive-impulsive) over the past 6 months.
Scoring & Interpretation
Part A (6 items): Score shaded boxes — 4+ shaded responses is a positive screen. Full scale (18 items): Sum all responses (0=Never to 4=Very Often), range 0–72. Higher scores indicate more frequent ADHD symptoms. There is no single diagnostic cut-off for the full scale; interpret alongside clinical interview.
| Score Range | Severity | Clinical Action |
|---|---|---|
| 0–3 (Part A) | Negative screen | ADHD unlikely — no further action needed |
| 4–6 (Part A) | Positive screen | Proceed to full diagnostic assessment |
| 0–36 (Full) | Low symptom burden | Review in context of presenting concerns |
| 37–54 (Full) | Moderate symptoms | Clinical interview recommended |
| 55–72 (Full) | High symptom burden | Comprehensive ADHD evaluation indicated |
Part A screener: sensitivity 68.7%, specificity 99.5%, PPV 97.4% (Kessler et al., 2005). Internal consistency: Cronbach's α = 0.88. Test-retest reliability: ICC = 0.86 over 2 weeks. Validated against clinician-administered DSM-IV diagnosis in a WHO field trial (n=154).
When to Use This vs Alternatives
Use WFIRS-S when…
You need to measure functional impairment across life domains (work, school, relationships, self-concept) rather than symptom frequency. The WFIRS-S tells you HOW MUCH ADHD affects daily life — the ASRS tells you IF symptoms are present.
View WFIRS-S →Use ADHD-FIS when…
You want a briefer functional impairment measure (6 items vs WFIRS-S's 69) focused on the impact of inattention and hyperactivity on daily tasks, relationships, and self-esteem.
View ADHD-FIS →Use WURS-25 when…
You need retrospective evidence of childhood ADHD symptoms. DSM-5 requires symptom onset before age 12 — the WURS-25 asks adults to recall childhood behaviours. Pair with ASRS for current + historical picture.
View WURS-25 →See It in Action
- 1Part A screening result with SCREEN POSITIVE/NEGATIVE badge
- 2Part B additional symptoms with elevated count
- 3Individual question responses with colour-coded scoring
- 4One-click PDF export and email delivery
What It Measures
The ASRS was developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) Composite International Diagnostic Interview as a screening tool for adult ADHD. It assesses the frequency of 18 DSM-IV-TR symptoms of ADHD (9 inattentive, 9 hyperactive-impulsive) over the past 6 months. Part A (6 items) functions as a brief screener; the full 18-item version provides a comprehensive symptom profile.
When to Use the ASRS
Use the ASRS as the first step when adult ADHD is suspected. It is a screening tool — not a diagnostic instrument. A positive screen (4+ shaded items in Part A) indicates that further clinical assessment is warranted, such as a structured diagnostic interview. Administer at intake or when a patient presents with concentration difficulties, disorganisation, restlessness, or impulsivity.
Who It's For
Adults aged 18+. Validated in community, primary care, and clinical samples. Self-report format — the patient completes it themselves. Available in 20+ languages. Not validated for under-18s (use SNAP-IV or Conners instead).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale)?
The ASRS is a self-report screening tool developed by the World Health Organisation to identify ADHD symptoms in adults. It contains 18 items based on DSM criteria. Part A (6 items) is a brief screener — 4 or more shaded responses indicate a positive screen requiring further assessment.
What score on the ASRS indicates ADHD?
On Part A (6-item screener), 4 or more shaded responses is a positive screen (sensitivity 68.7%, specificity 99.5%). This does NOT diagnose ADHD — it indicates that a full diagnostic assessment is warranted. The full 18-item scale does not have a single diagnostic cut-off.
How is the ASRS different from the DIVA-5?
The ASRS is a brief self-report screener (5 minutes, patient completes alone). The DIVA-5 is a comprehensive structured diagnostic interview (60-90 minutes, clinician-administered). Use ASRS first to screen, then DIVA-5 to diagnose.
Use the ASRS in your practice
Available on the Starter plan. Instant scoring, severity bands, and PDF reports included. Patients complete it on their phone or computer. Scored the moment they hit submit.