Abstract
Recent factor analytic studies in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have shown that hierarchical models provide
a better fit of ADHD symptoms than correlated models. A hierarchical model includes a general ADHD factor and specific factors
for inattention, and hyperactivity/impulsivity. The aim of this 12-month longitudinal study was to test the generalizability
of the hierarchical models of ADHD within an elementary school population of 6–9 year old children (250 boys, 260 girls).
Examination of differences as a function of informant (parent vs. teacher ratings), sex, and time was conducted. Six potential
factor structures for the 18 items of the SWAN (Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD-symptoms and Normal-behavior) scale were tested using confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses. Hierarchical models with a general ADHD
factor and two or three specific factors best accounted for parent and teacher reports of symptoms for both boys and girls
and at two time points separated by a 12-month interval. Findings indicate that the 18 SWAN items measure a common latent
trait as well as orthogonal factors or dimensions of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
a better fit of ADHD symptoms than correlated models. A hierarchical model includes a general ADHD factor and specific factors
for inattention, and hyperactivity/impulsivity. The aim of this 12-month longitudinal study was to test the generalizability
of the hierarchical models of ADHD within an elementary school population of 6–9 year old children (250 boys, 260 girls).
Examination of differences as a function of informant (parent vs. teacher ratings), sex, and time was conducted. Six potential
factor structures for the 18 items of the SWAN (Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD-symptoms and Normal-behavior) scale were tested using confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses. Hierarchical models with a general ADHD
factor and two or three specific factors best accounted for parent and teacher reports of symptoms for both boys and girls
and at two time points separated by a 12-month interval. Findings indicate that the 18 SWAN items measure a common latent
trait as well as orthogonal factors or dimensions of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-13
- DOI 10.1007/s10802-011-9584-5
- Authors
- Sébastien Normand, Department of Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, Canada
- David B. Flora, Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada
- Maggie E. Toplak, Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada
- Rosemary Tannock, Neurosciences and Mental Health Research Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada
- Journal Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology
- Online ISSN 1573-2835
- Print ISSN 0091-0627