Exploring DSM-IV ADHD number of symptoms criterion: preliminary findings in adolescents

ABSTRACT

Objective: To explore DSM-IV number of symptoms criterion for the diagnoses of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in a non-referred sample of young Brazilian adolescents. Methods: 170 students aged 12 to 14 year-old were evaluated using DSM-IV ADHD criteria, measures of ADHD symptoms, global and school impairment. Results: ADHD adolescents (n=30) had significantly higher scores on Attention Problems scale of Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and higher rates of school repetition than both non-ADHD adolescents (n=128) and adolescents who had a subthreshold number of inattentive or hyperactive/impulse symptoms (5 symptoms), but fulfilled all other DSM-IV ADHD criteria (n=12). The two last groups did not differe significantly in any measure assessed. Conclusion: These preliminary results support the appropriateness of DSM-IV number of symptoms criterion for the diagnoses of ADHD in young adolescents.