A study published in the British Journal of Clinical Psychology reveals several factors influencing the age of diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It turns out that children with higher IQs are diagnosed later. The study was led by researchers from the University of Western Ontario and Queen’s University in Canada. She analyzed data from 568 young people aged 4 to 22, all diagnosed with ADHD. The researchers also took other factors into account, such as gender and socioeconomic status.
What factors influence the age of diagnosis?
The study found that several factors influenced the age of ADHD diagnosis. Higher socioeconomic status and non-White maternal ethnicity were associated with later diagnosis. Additionally, how ADHD symptoms manifested outwardly played an important role. For example, in people who internalized their symptoms, the diagnosis was made later.
“We first observed that a higher IQ was linked to an older age of diagnosis,” the researchers explain in their publication. “Next, we noticed that hyperactivity-impulsivity and externalizing symptoms were associated with earlier diagnosis in both boys and girls. »
People with ADHD have noticeable differences in their movements, ability to concentrate and control their impulses. This disorder can have a significant impact on children’s learning and development. Early diagnosis is therefore essential.
Consequences of late diagnosis
Delayed diagnosis, or lack thereof, can lead to behavioral difficulties and below-average academic performance. Although previous studies have suggested that girls and people with higher IQs are often diagnosed later, the researchers in this study wanted to analyze these two factors together.
The researchers expected that the impact of IQ on age of diagnosis would be more pronounced in girls. But the data did not support this hypothesis. In reality, girls and boys seemed to be affected equally.
“Future research should include undiagnosed individuals, as this would allow for consideration of girls who were not diagnosed due to the factors mentioned in this study,” the researchers point out.
What implications for health professionals?
These results offer valuable insights to health professionals and parents to better identify ADHD. Children with higher IQs or those who are able to hide their symptoms are more likely to be overlooked in diagnosis.
Researchers point out that ADHD can manifest in a variety of ways and that some subtle signs may go unnoticed, particularly in children who appear to be particularly bright academically. To further complicate the process, ADHD is sometimes misdiagnosed like other disorders. Identifying what is ADHD and what isn’t can be difficult, but studies like this provide important insights.
“Healthcare professionals need to be aware of individual differences and demographic factors, which should be taken into account when making a diagnosis,” the researchers explain. “However, these factors may also prevent some people from seeking a diagnosis. »
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