Validation of the Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale (AISRS)

Abstract

Objective: Validation of the Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale (AISRS) that measures aspects of ADHD in adults. Method: Psychometric properties of the AISRS total and AISRS subscales are analyzed and compared to the Conners’ Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale-Investigator Rated: Screening Version (CAARS-Inv:SV) and the Clinical Global Impression-ADHD-Severity Scale using data from a placebo-controlled 6-month clinical trial of once-daily atomoxetine. Results: The AISRS has high internal consistency, good convergent, and discriminant validities; modest divergent validity; and small ceiling and floor effects (≤1%). It correlates highly with the CAARS-Inv:SV. Factor analysis confirms 2 AISRS subscales, hyperactivity-impulsive scale and inattention. The AISRS total and AISRS subscales perform stably. All scales demonstrate responsiveness to change with medication. Conclusion: The AISRS and its subscales are robust, valid efficacy measures of ADHD symptoms in adult patients. Its anchored items and semistructured interview are advancements over existing scales. (J. of Att. Dis. 2010; 14(1) 57-68)