Emotions and Feelings as Predictors of Depression and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders among Children and...

Although blindness is a detrimental physical condition affecting almost all aspects of the lives of children and adolescents with blindness, little is known about the negative emotions and feelings they express and how they are linked with psychological disorders. Thus, this study aimed at examining the links between negative basic emotions, feelings, depression, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders (ADHD).

Sixty children and adolescents with blindness were selected from HVP Gatagara-Rwamagana. We computed the regression analysis to identify the associations between emotions and feelings and depression and ADHD symptoms.

Results indicated clinical levels of sadness in 29 of 60 (48.3%), low self-esteem in 27 of 60 (45%), anger in 26 of 60 (43.3%), guilt and shame in 25 of 60) 41.6%, depression in 26 of 60 (43.3%), inattention in 11 of 60 (18.3%) and hyperactivity in 3 of 60 (5%). This study revealed that self-esteem (β = -0.81, p < 0.001), anger (β = 0.76, p < 0.001), sadness (β = 0.75, p < 0.001), low happiness (β = -0.53, p < 0.001), guilt and shame (β = 0.70, p < 0.001) predicted depressive symptoms. Only sadness (β = 0.540, p = 0.04) and anger (β =- 0.556, p = 0.04) were significant predictors of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children with blindness.

Interventions designed to elevate self-esteem and happiness as well as decrease anger, sadness, shame and guilt are needed for decreasing the risk of depression and ADHD.