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Comparison of the DSM-IV combined and inattentive types of ADHD in a school-based sample of Latino/Hispanic children.

Bauermeister JJ, Matos M, Reina G, Salas CC, Martínez JV, Cumba E, Barkley RA

Department of Psychology, University Center for Psychological Services and Research, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, San Juan, PR. jjbauer@prtc.net

BACKGROUND: The aim of this investigation was to examine the construct validity and distinctiveness of the inattentive type (IT) and combined type (CT) of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in a Latino/Hispanic sample. METHOD: A comprehensive assessment was conducted with a clinically diagnosed school-based sample of 98 children aged 6 to 11 (CT=44; IT=25; control group=29). RESULTS: Both ADHD groups were impaired on academic achievement measures, presented more ADHD-type behaviors during math and vigilance tasks, and exhibited greater internalizing symptoms. The IT group had a later onset of inattention symptoms, presented more sluggish cognitive tempo symptoms, was less prone to initiate social interactions or to be assertive and more self-controlled in social interchanges, was less likely to have externalizing behaviors, had mothers who reported less child-related family stress, and was less impaired in their adaptive functioning. CONCLUSIONS: Findings supported the construct validity of ADHD in this culturally different sample and suggested that the CT and IT represent distinct disorders.

Published 31 January 2005 in J Child Psychol Psychiatry, 46(2): 166-79.
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