Assessing adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a Turkish version of the current symptoms scale

Abstract

We report normative data for a Turkish translation of the Current Symptoms Scale (CSS), a screening measure of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The CSS yields 3 scores reflecting diagnostic criteria for: (1) ADHD, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type; (2) ADHD, predominantly inattentive type, and (3) ADHD, combined type. For comparison purposes, we also present normative data from a community sample in the United States. Central tendency, variability, and correlation patterns among Turkish subjects (n=181) were similar to patterns demonstrated by respondents in the United States (n=114). Mann-Whitney U tests revealed that the Turkish and US groups did not differ significantly on the subscales assessing inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Both versions demonstrated acceptable levels of internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranged from 0.65 to 0.78 for the Turkish version, and from 0.63 to 0.75 for the English version). The Turkish version of the CSS demonstrated excellent test- retest reliability. The test-retest coefficient for the CSS (total score) was 0.82. The inattentive type subscale also showed good test-retest reliability, with r=0.78. The test-retest coefficient for the hyperactive-impulsive type subscale was appreciably lower, with r=0.68; albeit, in the acceptable range. Investigators have determined that many adults, initially diagnosed with ADHD as children, continue to demonstrate clinically significant symptoms. Since adult ADHD is associated with a number of comorbid psychiatric conditions and treatment of the underlying attentional, executive, and impulse control difficulties is associated with a reduction in comorbid psychiatric symptoms, the routine screening for adult ADHD in psychiatric and mental health settings may be warranted.