Editing Attention span (section)

==Measurement==
Many different tests on attention span have been used in different populations and in different times. Some tests measure short-term, focused attention abilities (which is typically below normal in people with [[ADHD]]), and others provide information about how easily distracted the test-taker is (typically a significant problem in people with ADHD). Tests like the DeGangi's ''Test of Attention in Infants'' (TAI) and [[Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children]]-IV (WISC-IV) are commonly used to assess attention-related issues in young children when interviews and observations are inadequate.<ref name=Lindsey>{{cite book | vauthors = Banhatti R | veditors = Dwivedi KN, Harper PB |chapter=Attention and Mental Health |title=Promoting The Emotional Well-being of Children and Adolescents and Preventing Their Mental Ill Health: A Handbook |publisher=Jessica Kingsley Publishers |location=London |year=2004 |pages=87–92 |oclc=54906900 |isbn=978-1-84310-153-6}}</ref> Older tests, like the [[Continuous Performance Test]] and the [[Porteus Maze Test]], have been rejected by some experts.<ref name=Lindsey/> These tests are typically criticized{{By whom|date=October 2023}} as not actually measuring attention, being inappropriate for some populations, or not providing clinically useful information.

Variability in test scores can be produced by small changes in the testing environment.<ref name=Lindsey/> For example, test-takers will usually remain on task for longer periods of time if the examiner is visibly present in the room than if the examiner is absent.