How evidence-based is the “hashtag ADHD test” (#adhdtest). A cross-sectional content analysis of TikTok videos on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) screening
Smita Verma, Suman Kumar Sinha
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: TikTok is being increasingly used as an easily accessible source of information on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This study aimed to find the quality of information on ADHD screening or self-test in TikTok videos with the hashtag #adhdtest and the engagement of these videos with their viewers. METHOD: The content of the top 50 TikTok videos with the "hashtag #ADHDtest" was analyzed cross-sectionally and categorized as "useful" or "misleading" after comparison of its content with the "Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale" (ASRS-v1.1). The videos were categorized as "useful" if its contents had at least 4 out of the 6 questions on the ASRS-v1.1 screener. Its level of engagement was quantified by measuring the number of times the video was liked, commented on, or added to favorites. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. RESULT: = 46) were misleading. Furthermore, useful videos had minimal engagement, with only 4% of the total likes, 1% of the total comments, and 7% of the total favorites. CONCLUSION: There is misleading information related to adult ADHD screening and testing on TikTok. There is a need to address this misinformation.