Correlates of Anxiety in 6- to 8-Year-Old Children With ADHD: A Community-Based Study

J Atten Disord. 2018 Mar;22(5):425-434. doi: 10.1177/1087054716638510. Epub 2016 Mar 28.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the child and parent/family correlates of anxiety in a community-based sample of children with ADHD.

Method: Children (6-8 years) with ADHD ( n = 179) and controls ( n = 212) were assessed for ADHD and anxiety using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children IV. Potential child and parent/family correlates were measured through direct assessments, and parent- and teacher-reported questionnaires. Associations were examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results: One in four children with ADHD ( n = 44) met criteria for an anxiety disorder, compared with one in 20 controls ( n = 10). Anxiety was common in both boys and girls with ADHD. The strongest correlates of anxiety in multivariate analyses were ADHD subtype, primary caregiver psychosocial distress, and neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage.

Conclusion: Anxiety is common in children with ADHD. This study provides insight into the potential parent/family stressors that may increase risk for anxiety in children with ADHD.

Keywords: ADHD; anxiety; gender; parent mental health; socioeconomic status.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety Disorders / etiology*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Child
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Parents / psychology
  • Risk Factors
  • Stress, Psychological / psychology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires