Predicting attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and oppositional defiant disorder from preschool diagnostic assessments.

• DOI: 10.1037/a0014638
• Publication Date: 2009-03-23T19:31:29Z
• Authors: Elizabeth A. Harvey; Sara D. Youngwirth; Dhara A. Thakar; Paula A. Errazuriz
• Keywords: Male; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity; Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders; Predictive Value of Tests; Child, Preschool; Humans; Female; Prospective Studies

The present study examined the power of measures of early preschool behavior to predict later diagnoses of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)/conduct disorder (CD). Participants were 168 children with behavior problems at age 3 who underwent a multimethod assessment of ADHD and ODD symptoms and were followed annually for 3 years. Fifty-eight percent of 3-year-old children with behavior problems met criteria for ADHD and/or ODD/CD 3 years later. Using a diagnostic interview and rating scales at age 3, the authors could accurately predict later diagnostic status for 3/4 of children for ADHD and for 2/3 of children for ODD/CD. Predictive power of the best models did not increase significantly at age 4 and age 5 compared with age 3. Results provide support for the validity of early diagnoses of ADHD, although caution is needed in making diagnoses because a significant minority of children with early hyperactivity and inattention do outgrow their problems.