At FHCTS, we are dedicated to providing you with valuable tools for understanding mental health and behavioral challenges. One of our key resources is the Conners 4 Screening, a reliable tool designed to help identify potential issues related to attention, hyperactivity, and emotional difficulties in children and adolescents.

​

What is the Conners 4 Screening?

​

The Conners 4 (Conners 4th Edition) is a comprehensive screening tool that focuses on assessing behavioral concerns, particularly Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and its symptoms. Developed by leading experts in the field, this screening uses various questionnaires completed by parents, teachers, and the individuals themselves. This multi-informant approach provides a thorough snapshot of behaviors across different environments.

​

What Does the Conners 4 Screening Look For?

​

The Conners 4 Screening is capable of identifying a wide range of behavioral and emotional challenges, including:

​

• ADHD Symptoms: It screens for attention difficulties, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

• Behavioral Issues: The tool assesses behaviors such as aggression, oppositional behaviors, and defiance.

• Learning Problems: It can highlight potential learning difficulties associated with attention issues.

• Emotional Concerns: The screening identifies symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and social difficulties.

• Executive Functioning: It evaluates challenges with organization, planning, and task completion.

 

While the Conners 4 Screening is designed to provide valuable insights, it is important to note that it only one part of a comprehensive full assessment. As a standalone tool, it should be viewed as a preliminary screening, and the results should be interpreted as initial indicators of potential concerns. A complete assessment may be necessary for a formal diagnosis or in-depth understanding.

​​

Scales Assessed by the Conners 4 Screening

​

The Conners 4 Screening evaluates several key scales to provide a comprehensive view of the child's or adolescent's behavior:

​

1. Content Scales: These scales focus on specific behaviors and symptoms associated with ADHD and related difficulties. Key subcategories include:​

   • Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Measures of excessive movement, impulsive actions, and inability to wait for turns.

   • Inattention: Indicators of difficulties with sustaining attention and focus in various settings.

   • Learning Problems: Assessment of academic performance, specifically related to attention and behavioral challenges.

   • Executive Functioning: Evaluates organizational skills, planning abilities, and overall cognitive control.

   • Peer Relations: Assesses the quality of interactions with peers and potential issues in socialization.

2. Impairment Scales: These scales evaluate the degree to which identified behaviors interfere with daily functioning, highlighting specific areas affected:

   • Family: Impact on family dynamics, relationships, and interactions within the home.

   • School: Effects on academic performance, classroom behavior, and school relationships.

   • Social: Challenges in peer interactions, including friendships and social skills.

   • Activity: Evaluation of participation in social and recreational activities.

3. DSM Scales: These scales are aligned with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), focusing on specific disorder-related criteria. Key categories include:

   • ADHD: Symptoms specific to ADHD types (Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive, Combined Presentation).

   • Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD): Indicators of opposition, defiance, and argumentative behavior.

   • Conduct Disorder: Signs of more severe behavioral issues, including aggression toward people and animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness, and serious rule violations.

   • Anxiety: Symptoms that reflect generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and related emotional struggles.

   • Depression: Indicators of depressive symptoms that may interfere with daily life, including feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

4. Validity Scales: These scales assess the reliability and validity of the responses, ensuring that the information gathered is accurate and representative of the individual’s behaviors and feelings. They include:

   • Inconsistency: Evaluates the level of consistency in responses to determine if they are valid.

   • Negativity: Identifies potential exaggeration or minimization of problems.

 

Why Use the Conners 4?

​

• Screening Tool: While the Conners 4 is not a formal diagnostic screening in itself; however, it serves as an effective mechanism to identify potential behavioral and emotional challenges. The results can help guide further assessments and interventions.

• Authoritative Insights: The Conners 4 is widely recognized in the field of psychology and mental health. Its results are grounded in robust research, making it a trusted resource for practitioners and families alike.

• Efficient and Insightful: The Conners 4 provides quick and insightful data to help clinicians understand a child’s or adolescent’s behavior, paving the way for tailored support strategies.​

 

How Do We Use the Conners 4 at FHCTS?

​

At FHCTS, we utilize the Conners 4 as part of our screening process to detect potential areas of concern. The insights we gain from this screening are invaluable; they help us identify trends and behaviors that may require additional support or intervention. However, it’s essential to remember that the results from this screening should not be considered a complete formal assessment. They are a starting point for discussions about your child’s wellbeing.

​

What to Expect

​

When you participate in the Conners 4 screening at FHCTS, you can expect:

​

1. Confidentiality: Your privacy is our priority. All responses will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.

2. Comprehensive Analysis: We will review the results with you over an included 50-minute session to identify any areas of concern and discuss possible next steps.

3. Tailored Recommendations: Based on the findings, we will provide recommendations that may include further assessments, behavioral strategies, or referrals to other professionals.

 

Get Started Today

​

If you are interested in learning more about the Conners 4 Screening or would like to schedule a session with us at FHCTS, please contact us today. Together, we can work towards understanding and supporting your child's unique needs.

Let’s begin the journey toward better mental health and wellbeing. Your child and your family deserves clarity and a path forward!

​

​