week 6: Agnew-Blais et al (2016) evaluation of persistence, remission, and emergence of ADHA in young adulthood

What was the primary objective of the study’s findings by Agnew-Blais et al.?

The primary objective was to investigate childhood risk factors and young adult functioning in individuals with persistent, remitted, and late-onset young adult functioning in individuals with persistent, remitted and late-onset young adult ADHD in a nonclinical population.

Which diagnostic criteria were used for childhood ADHD in the study?

Childhood ADHD diagnosis was based on mother and teacher reports of 18 symptoms derived from DSM-IV diagnostic criteria and the Ritter Child Scales.

How was young adult ADHD diagnosis ascertained in the study?

Young adult ADHD diagnosis at age 18 was ascertained based on private structures symptom endorsement and impairment.

What percentage of individual who met criteria for childhood ADHD also met criteria at age 18 years?

Of the individuals who met diagnostic criteria for childhood ADHD, 21.9% also met diagnostic criteria at age 18 years.

Name two childhood characteristics associated with the persistence of ADHD into young adult

Two childhood characteristics associated with persistence were more symptoms across childhood and lower IQ.

What proportion of individuals with ADHD at age 18 years in the study did not meet criteria for ADHD at any childhood assessment?

Among individuals with adult ADHD, 67.5% did not meet criteria for ADhD at any assessment in childhood, representing the late-onset group.

We’re there significant differences in prenatal and perinatal factors or family environment characteristics between the late-onset and persistent ADHD groups in childhood?

No, prenatal and perinatal factors and characteristics of the family environment generally did not differ between the late-onset and persistent ADHD groups in childhood, expect for sex composition.

How did individuals with persistent ADHD compare to those with remitted ADHD in terms of functional impairment at age 18 years?

Individuals with persistent ADHD had more functional impairment at age 18 years (in school/work and home/with friends) compared with those whose ADHD were had remitted.

What were the key differences in childhood characteristics between the late-onset and persistent ADHD groups?

Compared to the persistent group, individuals with late-onset ADHD were more likely to be female, had fewer childhood externalising problems, and had higher IQ in childhood.

Based on the study’s conclusions, should the absence of a childhood ADHD diagnosis prevent adults with ADHD from receiving clinical attention?

No, the study concludes that the absence Of a childhood diagnosis should not preclude adults with ADHD from receiving clinical attention due to significant symptoms, impairment, and comorbidity in the late-onset group.