Psychopathological Risk in Siblings of Subjects with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A cross-Sectional...

Area of Science:

• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Global Mental Health

Background:

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder.
• Family genetic and environmental factors contribute to ADHD risk.
• Limited research exists on mental health in siblings of children with ADHD in low-middle income countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of mental disorders in siblings of children with ADHD in Colombia.
• To investigate the association between psychosocial adversity and psychopathology in these siblings.

Main Methods:

• Evaluated 74 trios (ADHD child, sibling, parent) using DSM-5 criteria.
• Administered ADHD rating scales and instruments for mental disorders and psychosocial adversity.
• Assessed family history of ADHD and psychosocial adversity using the Rutter Adversity Index.

Main Results:

• 24.3% of siblings met criteria for ADHD; another 24.3% had other psychiatric disorders.
• Sibling ADHD risk increased with parental ADHD history.
• 28.3% of families reported high levels of psychosocial adversity.

Conclusions:

• Siblings of children with ADHD are at significant risk for ADHD and other mental disorders.
• Parental ADHD history and multiple psychosocial adversity factors exacerbate this risk.
• Early detection and intervention in siblings are crucial for mitigating adverse outcomes.