ABSTRACT
Two hundred and fifty-three mothers were surveyed regarding attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in their preschool children (aged 2-6 years). Twenty-four children (9.5%) met DSM-IV criteria (criterion A only) for ADHD based solely on parent report. Mean ratings of the three core symptoms of ADHD (hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness) were in the mid-range on a 1-7 point scale, with mothers indicating their children were most likely to be impulsive. Positive parental endorsement of the 18 individual DSM-IV symptoms of ADHD ranged from 4% for 'loses things necessary for tasks', to 28.4% for 'is on the go or acts as if driven by a motor'. Males and children of less-educated parents were more likely to receive endorsement of ADHD symptoms. There were no differences with respect to age of the child or birth order (first vs later born). Global ratings of hyperactivity and inattentiveness predicted overall ratings of ADHD but when classification rates were examined, high global ratings were not predictive of diagnosis. These results lend support to the notion that relying solely on parents' verbal reports of isolated ADHD symptoms may lead to over-identification of the disorder. Thus, using full DSM-IV diagnostic criteria and including standardized behaviour rating scales across multiple informants and settings, is recommended.
Subject(s)
Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/diagnosis , Mothers , Psychometrics/methods , Surveys and Questionnaires , Age Distribution , Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/epidemiology , Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/psychology , Child , Child Day Care Centers/statistics & numerical data , Child, Preschool , Female , Humans , Male , Manuals as Topic , Nebraska/epidemiology , Regression Analysis , Sex Distribution , Utah/epidemiologyABSTRACT
Primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE) is prevalent among the pediatric population, but not all professionals are aware of the current research regarding the etiology and treatment of this disorder. This paper presents a broad overview of PNE, including etiology and evaluation, with a specific emphasis on treatment issues. The most current treatments (imipramine, desmopressin acetate arginine vasopressin, enuresis alarms) are discussed, including recent research on their effectiveness. In considering the recent data on long-term efficacy, overall cost, and safety, the treatment of choice appears to be the enuresis alarm for those families who are capable of following protocols. Desmopressin acetate arginine vasopressin is a safe alternative that has the advantage of quick response and ease of administration.
