Built on Research,
Designed for Real Life
Our framework doesn't replace clinical diagnosis. It translates decades of ADHD research into a language that actually helps you understand your brain.
How We Built This
The ADHD Type test is an experiential tool grounded in modern clinical models. We mapped the most cited frameworks of executive dysfunction and emotional dysregulation to everyday experiences.
Academic Foundation
Every dimension maps to published, peer-reviewed research. We draw from Barkley, Brown, Sonuga-Barke, and the DSM-5 — not pseudoscience or brain scans.
Community Validation
Questions were tested with real ADHD communities on Reddit, TikTok, and Discord. If a question didn't resonate, we cut it. Clinical accuracy means nothing if it doesn't feel true.
Continuous Refinement
We use aggregated, anonymized test data to constantly tune our scoring algorithms. As the science of ADHD evolves, so does our framework.
The 5+1 Dimensions
Instead of simply labeling you "inattentive" or "hyperactive," we measure your cognitive profile across five core spectrums, plus a modifier for social masking.
Emotional Reactivity
How intensely you experience emotions and how quickly you return to baseline. Based on Barkley's Deficient Emotional Self-Regulation framework.
Source: Barkley DESR Model (2015)Cognitive Tempo
Your brain's processing speed and attentional consistency. Measures the spectrum from racing hyperfocus to sluggish cognitive tempo.
Source: Barkley SCT Research (2012)Executive Activation
Your ability to initiate, organize, and sustain effort on tasks. Based on Brown's 6-cluster executive function model.
Source: Brown ADD Model (2005)Reward Sensitivity
How your dopamine system responds to rewards and novelty. Measures the urgency-boredom spectrum that drives ADHD behavior.
Source: Sonuga-Barke Dual-Pathway (2003)Sensory / Internal Focus
Where your attention naturally gravitates — external stimuli vs. internal imagination. The daydreaming-to-hypersensitivity axis.
Source: DSM-5 Inattentive CriteriaSocial Masking
How much energy you spend hiding your ADHD from the world. Detects compensatory behaviors that mask your natural cognitive patterns.
Source: Hull et al. (2017) Camouflaging ResearchWhat We Are NOT
Transparency is a core value. We want to be clear about the limitations of any online tool.
Not a Diagnosis
Only a qualified healthcare professional can diagnose ADHD. This test is for self-discovery and facilitating conversations with your doctor.
Not Medical Advice
We do not prescribe treatments, medications, or therapy. The strategies we provide are educational, not medical directives.
Not a Replacement
Do not stop or start any treatment based on this test. If you are struggling, please seek professional psychiatric support.
Ready to map your brain?
Take the 3-minute assessment to discover your unique ADHD cognitive profile.
Take the Test