Citation

Ruchkin V, Lorberg B, Koposov R, Schwab-Stone ME, Sukhodolsky DG. J. Atten. Disord. 2008; 12(1): 54-63.

Affiliation

Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520-7900, USA. vladislav.ruchkin@yale.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1087054707305169

PMID

17712166

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of ADHD symptoms and their relationship to psychopathology in adolescents from the European North of Russia. METHOD: The prevalence of ADHD symptoms is assessed by teacher reports in 536 adolescents. Internalizing and externalizing problems are assessed by teacher ratings and student self-reports. RESULTS: Prevalence of individual ADHD symptoms ranges between 3.3% and 35%. Only 8.9% of boys and 3.6% of girls have positive ratings on six items in either inattention or hyperactivity subtype. These adolescents fare significantly worse regarding externalizing but not internalizing problems. Compared to girls with ADHD, boys with ADHD report higher levels of violent and nonviolent delinquency and are described by teachers as having more conduct problems. Possible ADHD status is associated with depressive symptoms in boys but not in girls. CONCLUSION: The estimates of ADHD prevalence rates obtained in this study are similar to those of other countries, suggesting the need for identification and treatment of the disorder. Evaluation of associated disruptive behavior disorders and depression, particularly in boys, is warranted.

Language: en