Evidence for a general ADHD factor from a longitudinal general school population study.
Recent factor analytic studies in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have shown that hierarchical models provide a better fit of ADHD symptoms than correlated models. A hierarchical model includes a general ADHD factor and specific factors for inattention, and hyperactivity/impulsivity. The aim of this 12-month longitudinal study was to test the generalizability of the hierarchical models of ADHD within an elementary school population of 6-9 year old children (250 boys, 260 girls). Examination of differences as a function of informant (parent vs. teacher ratings), sex, and time was conducted. Six potential factor structures for the 18 items of the SWAN (Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD-symptoms and Normal-behavior) scale were tested using confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses. Hierarchical models with a general ADHD factor and two or three specific factors best accounted for parent and teacher reports of symptoms for both boys and girls and at two time points separated by a 12-month interval. Findings indicate that the 18 SWAN items measure a common latent trait as well as orthogonal factors or dimensions of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Department of Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, Canada.
Sébastien
S
Normand
David B
DB
Flora
Maggie E
ME
Toplak
Rosemary
R
Tannock
D001288:Attention; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000523:psychology*; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007175:Impulsive Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012574:Schools; D013663:Teaching