The QbTest is a computerized test that assesses impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity using motion tracking. It’s one test that may help in the diagnosis of ADHD.

There are several parts to an assessment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition to personal interviews and interviews with parents, caregivers, teachers, and other significant people in someone’s life, screening tools may help clinicians diagnose ADHD.

The QbTest is one of those screening tools. It’s a computerized test that uses motion tracking to measure impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity, which are primary symptoms of ADHD.

Read on for more information about the QbTest and what to expect if you have one.

The Quantified Behavioral (Qb) Test, also called the QbTest, is a computer-based assessment tool used to help diagnose ADHD. Rather than a passive questionnaire, it is an active, computer-based test of impulsivity and attention.

It takes 20 to 30 minutes and involves motion tracking using a computer, headgear, and a digital camera.

The purpose of the QBTest is to measure three main features of ADHD: impulsivity (acting without thinking), inattention (difficulty concentrating), and hyperactivity (excess movement).

A 2018 study from the National Institute for Health Research, a part of the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), found that using the QbTest helped people receive an ADHD diagnosis faster, helped clinicians more quickly exclude ADHD as a diagnosis, and helped 85% of the study participants understand their symptoms.

However, the QbTest is not the only test used to diagnose ADHD, and some researchers have cautioned against using it as the only assessment for ADHD because it may not be accurate enough to diagnose the condition in all individuals who have it.

Other screening tools and tests that healthcare professionals may use to help diagnose ADHD include:

  • World Health Organization Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale v1.1
  • Behavior Assessment System for Children
  • Child Attention Profile
  • Child Behavior Checklist/Teacher Report Form
  • Conners Rating Scale
  • Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scale

Healthcare professionals who diagnose ADHD also interview parents, teachers, and other significant people who know the person being assessed. Other screening and testing tools are available as well.

In addition to helping doctors and mental health professionals diagnose ADHD, the QbTest and other assessments can help them plan treatment and assess its effectiveness.

The test is usually done at a clinician’s office. You’ll watch a short instructional video and take a brief practice test to familiarize yourself with the process. You can ask any questions before the full test starts. A testing facilitator will stay with you as you take the QbTest.

During the test, you’ll wear a flexible headband that has a reflective ball attached to the front. Do not wear jewelry or reflective clothing during your QbTest.

You’ll sit in front of a computer and a camera. The camera will not record you — rather, it will record the movements of the reflective ball that’s attached to the headband you’re wearing.

During the test, you’ll hold a button — called a responder button — and press it when you see shapes on the computer screen. You’ll be instructed on which shapes to look for before the test.

There are no right or wrong answers for the QbTest. The test is about tracking how you respond, not what your specific responses are. When you reach the time limit, the test will end, and you’re done. You’ll be at the testing site for an hour. The test itself takes between 20 and 30 minutes.

The test produces three scores: inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Your QbTest scores are compared to those of other people of the same age and sex. A higher-than-average score for your age and sex in any one area may indicate that you have ADHD.

But ADHD is not diagnosed based on the QbTest alone. These scores are just one part of a full assessment for ADHD.

You don’t have to prepare for a QbTest. Show up on time, and don’t wear reflective clothing or sparkly jewelry.

What symptoms does the QbTest measure?

The QbTest measures impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity.

Who can administer the QbTest?

The QbTest can be administered only by licensed professionals who have been trained by the test’s publisher to interpret the scores.

Can the QbTest replace other ADHD diagnostic methods?

No. The Qbtest is used along with other standardized tests to help diagnose ADHD and measure how well treatment is working.

The Quantified Behavioral (Qb) Test is a computerized motion tracking test that measures impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity to help determine whether someone has ADHD and assess how well treatment is working for them.

It may be used as one part of an ADHD assessment along with clinical observations, questionnaires, and other assessment tools.