Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in a Sample of Brazilian School Children

Abstract

The aim of the study is to identify symptoms of hyperactivity and attention deficit in a sample of children from Rio de Janeiro and to identify differences in the levels of these symptoms among boys and girls, students from public and private schools and children of diferent age groups. 386 school-aged children between seven and 13 years participated (M= 9.46; SD= 1.34), public and private schools (n= 214 girls; n= 172 boys). Participants answered the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and caregivers answere the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Results indicate positive correlation between attention and emotional problems and between attention and behaviors problems. Boys presented higher levels of attention problems and behavior problems. There was no difference between the two groups for emotional problems. When participants were grouped between age ranges and public or private school, there were no significant differences for ADHD symptoms. These data contribute to a broader understanding of the relationship between ADHD and the other variables used.