Profiles os families with risk factors and behavioral problems in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Introduction. Literature shows that families of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience risk factors related to high levels of stress, less social support, or less coping skills. These contextual family factors can be aggravated by the presence of behavioral and social problems in children with ADHD. Aims. The present study set out the following objectives: 1) To identify profiles of families of children with ADHD at school age according to contextual indicators and socio-emotional variables such as stress level, coping strategies and social support. 2) To evaluate the differences between groups established in different domains of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Method. Thirty-five children, between 7 and 11 years old, who had received a clinical diagnosis of ADHD participated in this study. A family risk index was determined from the information provided by the families on the educational level, professional situation, parental psychopathology and parental status. In addition, the level of parental stress, social support, coping skills and behavioral and emotional problems of the child were evaluated. Results. Hierarchical cluster analyses carried out determined the existence of two groups of families; one with “severe risk” and another one with “moderate-low risk”. The severe profile was associated with greater social problems in children. Specifically, more hyperactivity and problems with peers. Conclusions. Contextual and socio-emotional factors of families should be taken into account in the approach of behavioral problems that children with ADHD present.