Do symptoms of ADHD at ages 7 and 10 predict academic outcome at age 16 in the general population?

J Atten Disord. 2014 Nov;18(8):635-45. doi: 10.1177/1087054712452136. Epub 2012 Jul 26.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the value of the Conners 10-item scale to predict academic outcomes at age 16 years in schoolchildren aged 7 and 10 years.

Method: A cohort study of N = 544 children in a municipality of Stockholm County was conducted. Using the parent and teacher version of the Conners 10-item scale, 7- and 10-year-olds were screened for ADHD symptoms and followed-up for school outcome at age 16 years.

Results: The best predictors for school outcome at age 16 years were the Conners items, "child failing to finish tasks" and "being inattentive, easily distracted," with a high specificity (90%-97%) but low sensitivity (18%-39%).

Conclusion: This study indicates a considerable association between certain symptoms of inattentiveness in young schoolchildren and academic underachievement at age 16 years. Screening for one to two symptoms of inattention in schoolchildren identifies 30% to 40% of participants at risk for later poor school attainment.

Keywords: ADHD; Conners 10-item scale; academic outcome; adolescents; schoolchildren.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Achievement*
  • Adolescent
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Attention / physiology*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / diagnosis
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology*
  • Child
  • Cohort Studies
  • Educational Status
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Sensitivity and Specificity