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Measuring Attentional Biases for Threat in Children and Adults
Published on: October 19, 2014
Self-reported inattention in early adolescence in a community sample
Laura L Connors1, Jennifer Connolly, Maggie E Toplak
1York University, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of Attention Disorders
|September 15, 2010
Summary
Self-reported inattention in children is linked to parental reports and various mental health issues. It also predicts later peer relationship problems and increased risk of victimization.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Inattention is a core symptom of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
- Limited research exists on the correlates of self-reported inattention in community samples of youth.
- Understanding self-reported inattention is crucial for identifying potential risks and interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the associations between self-reported inattention, parent-reported inattention, and self-reported psychopathology in children.
- To investigate self-reported inattention as a predictor of peer relationships and victimization.
- To explore the longitudinal impact of self-reported inattention on peer relationships.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional and longitudinal study design involving children aged 10-11 and 14-15 years.
- Utilized self-report measures for inattention, psychopathology, and peer relationships.
- Included parent-report measures for inattention.
Main Results:
- Children's self-reported inattention correlated with parental reports and was associated with hyperactivity-impulsivity, depression, anxiety, and conduct problems.
- High inattention predicted greater risk for victimization and poor peer relationships at ages 10-11, even after controlling for psychopathology.
- Self-reported inattention uniquely predicted poorer peer relationships longitudinally at ages 14-15.
Conclusions:
- Child self-report of inattention is a valid indicator with significant clinical implications.
- Inattention identified through self-report serves as a risk factor for concurrent and future adverse outcomes.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering children's perspectives on their inattentive symptoms.
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