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The T.O.V.A. is a
computerized continuous performance test. The T.O.V.A.
is a standardized, objective, and well normed test that
is used to assess an individual's attention abilities
and performance. The T.O.V.A. is a useful tool for
parents, educators and clinicians. It can be a major
component in evaluating how to address difficult issues
such as ADHD, ADD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and
Reactive Attachment Disorder.
Among other things, the
T.O.V.A. can:
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Screen for disorders
of attention
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Help in identifying
disorders of attention
-
As a measure of
attention in neurological injuries and disorders
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As a tool to monitor
the person's response to medication over time
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As a way to titrate
medication
T.O.V.A. is a
non-language based assessment tool that is culturally
sensitive. It is available in both visual and auditory
versions, and requires no left-right discrimination or
sequence. The T.O.V.A. is a diagnostic tool that
provides highly accurate information that is useful in
any multifaceted, multidisciplinary assessment of
children, adolescents and adults.
+ Visual
T.O.V.A.
is a non-language based computerized test that
asks the subject to press a specially designed
microswitch (rather than a mouse or keyboard) where the
appropriate "target" or stimulus appears on the screen.
The target is where a little square appears in the
upper portion of another square. The non-target is where a
little square is in the bottom portion of the bigger
square. Every two seconds a stimuli will flash on the
screen and the subject responds to the targets and
non-targets. Error of omission (inattention), errors of
commission (impulsively), response times, variability of
response times, post-commission response time,
anticipatory, and multiple response are all
recorded for each 5-minute quarter and
10minute halfs, as well as overall total scores for
each variable. Scores are compared to standardized norms
and an interpretation of the data is reported in
printable format.
+ Auditory
T.O.V.A.
is designed for use in the diagnosis and
treatment of children and adults with auditory
processing problems or attentional problems including
ADHD. The auditory vision was developed to increase the
diagnostic "hit rate" for individuals with ADD who
perform within normal limits on the Visual Version
(especially if high IQ and savvy computer game players).
It was normed with 2550 children ages 6-19. It is
recommended that clinicians continue to use the visual
T.O.V.A. as the primary evaluation and treatment tool
and supplement with the Auditory Version. Note that both
tests were normed in mornings only and before the
subject was fatigued. It is recommended that the two
tests be administrated on two different mornings. |
