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Outcomes of ADHD Symptoms in Late Adolescence: Are Developmental Subtypes Important?

Accepted version
Peer-reviewed

Type

Article

Change log

Authors

Murray, Aja Louise 
Booth, Tom 
Auyeung, Bonnie 
Ribeaud, Denis 

Abstract

Objective: Substantial individual variation exists in the age of onset and course of ADHD symptoms over development. We evaluated whether, within this variation, meaningful developmental subtypes can be defined. Method: Using growth mixture modeling in a community-based sample (N = 1,571), we analyzed ADHD symptom trajectories based on measures taken at ages 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, and 15 years. We evaluated whether those showing developmental trajectories characterized by later onsets versus early onsets differed in terms of mental health and behavioral outcomes in late adolescence (age 17 years). Result: The late onset category was best conceptualized as a milder subtype than early onset. The former was, however, more similar in outcomes to the latter than to the unaffected category, suggesting that later onsets are still associated with impairment. Conclusion: Considering diagnoses for those affected by ADHD symptoms but who do not meet current age of onset criteria may be important for ensuring that they receive appropriate support.

Description

Keywords

ADHD, development, subtypes, Adolescent, Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity, Health Status, Humans, Mental Health

Journal Title

J Atten Disord

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

1087-0547
1557-1246

Volume Title

24

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Rights

All rights reserved
Sponsorship
Jacobs Foundation (unknown)
Swiss National Science Foundation (116829)