SNAP Score (ADHD Screening)

Screen for ADHD symptoms in children aged 6-18 using the validated SNAP-IV 26-item rating scale. Covers inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and opposition/defiance.

Screening for ADHD symptoms in children aged 6-18 using the SNAP-IV rating scale

Inattention (Items 1-9)

1. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or tasks.

2. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.

3. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

4. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties.

5. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.

6. Often avoids, dislikes, or reluctantly engages in tasks requiring sustained mental effort.

7. Often loses things necessary for activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils or books).

8. Often is distracted by extraneous stimuli.

9. Often is forgetful in daily activities.

Hyperactivity/Impulsivity (Items 10-18)

10. Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.

11. Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected.

12. Often runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate.

13. Often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly.

14. Often is "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor."

15. Often talks excessively.

16. Often blurts out answers before questions have been completed.

17. Often has difficulty awaiting their turn.

18. Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations/games).

Opposition/Defiance (Items 19-26)

19. Often loses temper.

20. Often argues with adults.

21. Often actively defies or refuses adult requests or rules.

22. Often deliberately does things that annoy other people.

23. Often blames others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior.

24. Often is touchy or easily annoyed by others.

25. Often is angry and resentful.

26. Often is spiteful or vindictive.

About This Calculator

The SNAP Score Calculator (Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham — Version IV) is a validated 26-item behavioral screening tool designed to assess symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children aged 6 to 18. Based on the widely-used SNAP-IV Teacher and Parent Rating Scale, this calculator helps parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals evaluate three key behavioral domains: inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and opposition/defiance.

The SNAP-IV scale consists of 26 statements describing common ADHD-related behaviors. Each item is rated on a 4-point scale from "Not at all" (0) to "Very much" (3). The Inattention subset (items 1-9) measures difficulty sustaining attention, following instructions, and organizing tasks. The Hyperactivity/Impulsivity subset (items 10-18) assesses fidgeting, excessive talking, and difficulty waiting for turns. The Opposition/Defiance subset (items 19-26) screens for symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder including temper loss, arguing, and blaming others.

Results are interpreted using clinical thresholds: scores below 13 suggest symptoms are not clinically significant, 13-17 indicate mild symptoms, 18-22 indicate moderate symptoms, and 23 or above indicate severe symptoms. The Inattention and Hyperactivity subsets each have a maximum score of 27, while the Opposition/Defiance subset has a maximum of 24.

Important disclaimer: This calculator is a screening tool only and cannot replace a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. A formal ADHD diagnosis requires assessment by a psychiatrist, developmental pediatrician, or neurologist who will consider clinical history, DSM-5 criteria, and multiple informant reports. If your child's scores suggest moderate to severe symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional for further assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SNAP score and how does it screen for ADHD?

The SNAP score (Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham rating scale) is a 26-item behavioral screening tool that assesses ADHD symptoms in children aged 6-18. It evaluates three subsets: inattention (items 1-9), hyperactivity/impulsivity (items 10-18), and opposition/defiance (items 19-26). Each item is rated 0-3 by a parent or teacher based on observed behavior.

How is the SNAP-IV score interpreted?

For the Inattention and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity subsets (max 27 each): a score below 13 indicates symptoms are not clinically significant, 13-17 indicates mild symptoms, 18-22 indicates moderate symptoms, and 23 or above indicates severe symptoms. For the Opposition/Defiance subset (max 24), the same thresholds apply with 23-24 indicating severe symptoms.

Can the SNAP score replace a professional ADHD diagnosis?

No, the SNAP score is a screening tool only and cannot replace a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. A formal ADHD diagnosis requires assessment by a psychiatrist, developmental pediatrician, or neurologist who will consider clinical history, DSM-5 criteria, and multiple informant reports.

What are the three subsets measured by the SNAP-IV scale?

The SNAP-IV 26-item scale measures three subsets: Inattention (9 items assessing difficulty sustaining attention, following instructions, and organizing tasks), Hyperactivity/Impulsivity (9 items assessing fidgeting, excessive talking, and interrupting others), and Opposition/Defiance (8 items assessing temper loss, arguing with adults, and blaming others).

What is the prevalence of ADHD in children worldwide?

According to epidemiological studies, the prevalence of ADHD in children worldwide is approximately 8.4%. ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in boys than girls, with a ratio of about 2:1 in children. Early screening and intervention can significantly improve academic and social outcomes.

What are the risk factors for developing ADHD?

Risk factors for ADHD include genetic factors (having a first-degree relative with ADHD), certain temperament traits such as negative emotionality and reduced behavioral inhibition, maternal drug use during pregnancy (smoking, alcohol, opiates), low birth weight, and prenatal exposure to environmental toxins like lead.

What treatment options are available for children with ADHD?

ADHD treatment options include stimulant medications (methylphenidates and amphetamines), behavior therapy such as play or talk therapy, social skills training to improve peer interactions, and parent training and psychoeducation to help parents support their child. A combined approach of medication and behavioral intervention is often most effective.

Can adults have ADHD and how does SNAP-IV apply to them?

Yes, adults can have ADHD. Symptoms such as reduced attention to detail, forgetfulness, restlessness, and difficulty organizing tasks can significantly affect social and occupational functioning. However, the SNAP-IV rating scale is specifically validated for children aged 6-18 and is not intended for adult ADHD screening.