The Testing Path

In a parent’s relationship with a child, or in that child’s relationship to his classroom environment, questions may arise which lead to considering the questions: Should my child be tested? If so, what kind of testing? If tested, then what?

Three types of tests are commonly considered for children: ADHD assessment, learning disability testing, and personality testing. Dr. Heath Greene, a clinical psychologist at ACC, provides a roadmap to navigate these questions.

1. ADHD Assessment

People may be familiar with the term ADD. ADHD is the newer designation which covers three distinct types:

• A combination of inattention and hyperactivity
• Predominantly inattentive—daydreamers, not behavioral problems
• Predominantly hyperactive—always moving, impulsive

“Assessment begins with a clinical interview,” Dr. Greene stated. “Each parent and the teacher are then asked to fill out a rating scale. Once these are completed, the child comes in for testing. This assessment tool also provides information about learning disabilities, concentration, and attention to detail. Once the testing is completed, I meet again with the parents to provide feedback and a formal report complete with recommendations. The entire process takes about 8 hours over a month’s time.”

2. LD Testing

“A key indicator that a child may be struggling with a learning disability is a gap between IQ and achievement, or between their actual grade in school and achievement,” said Heath. “The child’s visual/motor integration will also be evaluated. The steps for this assessment process are much the same as those described previously for ADHD.”

3. Personality Testing

Dr. Greene shared that this type of testing might be considered if your child is worried, anxious, or stressed to such a degree that it affects his daily life. Both the level of stress the child is exhibiting as well as the length of time for which it continues, are important guidelines for making a decision regarding personality testing.

For more information on parenting, children, and testing, be sure to read the other featured article in this issue, “Parenting for the Beginners or the Battle Weary,” or contact Associates in Christian Counseling at 336-896-0065.