ADHD and ODD Dimensions: Time Varying Prediction of Internalizing Problems from Childhood to Adolescence

Although childhood ADHD is a risk factor for internalizing problems, it consists of separable inattention and hyperactivity dimensions that differentially predict outcomes. Oppositional defiant disorder also consists of separable dimensions (i.e., irritable, oppositional), co-occurs with ADHD, and predicts internalizing outcomes. To discern independent associations with internalizing problems, dimensions must be considered simultaneously.

Controlling for age, sex, and race, we tested inattention, hyperactivity, irritability, and oppositionality as time-varying predictors of 6 to 7-year prospective change in parent- and teacher-rated internalizing problems in 230 ethnically- diverse (50% Caucasian) 5 to 10 year old youth (M = 7.4 years, 68% male) with (n = 120) and without ADHD (n = 110).

Escalating inattention and irritability, but not hyperactivity and oppositionality, uniquely predicted internalizing problems.

These findings suggest that inattention and irritability are unique risk factors for later internalizing problems. These dimensions may catalyze internalizing problems across development and constitute important intervention targets.