The Bender Gestalt Test May Help in Diagnosing ADHD

The Bender Gestalt Test is a common ADHD test that was designed by neuropsychiatrist Lauretta Bender in the late nineteenth century. It is used to evaluate "visual-motor maturity." This test helps doctors to identify if a patient is affected by a developmental disorder. It can also asses the severity of any brain damage and is available for both children and adults.

By requiring patients to draw different figures they have just been shown, the Bender Gestalt Test effectively evaluates visual maturity, visual motor integration skills, style of responding, reaction to frustration, ability to correct mistakes, and motivation. The figures are shown to the patient one at a time, and he or she is then asked to draw them without the use of any mechanical aids; however, erasing is allowed. The method in which the test is given may vary. For example, some administrators may hold up drawings of the individual figures for a few seconds and then require patients to draw from memory. Others may have patients try to recall as many figures as possible and re-draw them after the test is complete. Sometimes, the test can be administered to a group rather than an individual person. These variations are at the discretion of the doctor.

Copying pictures requires fine-tuned motor skills, the ability to discriminate between visual stimuli, integration between visual and motor skills, and an ability to shift attention quickly. This is the reason why the Bender Gestalt Test is effective in assisting in the diagnosis of a developmental disorder. Other tests, such as the TOVA test, may also help to identify if you or your child suffers from an attention or memory disorder.

It is recommended to consult a physician if you believe you or one of your children may be suffering from a developmental disorder.