Prevalence of ADHD symptoms among youth in a secure facility: the consistency and accuracy of self- and informant-report ratings

Abstract

The current study aimed to determine the most reliable source of information about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. This was a between-groups cohort study in order to compare the accuracy of three informant groups (self-, teacher-, and keyworker-report ratings) in identifying symptoms of ADHD. The estimate of ADHD prevalence was obtained by comparing the Conners' rating scales administered to 54, 14-year-old antisocial persons detained in a high-risk care home with a psychiatric assessment conducted on every third child. Overall, teachers were the most valid source and their ratings estimated that 43% of antisocial adolescents might have ADHD with sensitivity and specificity rates of 67% and 75%, respectively. In conclusion, rating scales may assist services in targeting their resources for those with most clinical need in this population, but these should not replace comprehensive assessment procedures.

Keywords:

• ADHD
• delinquent youth
• informants' ratings scales

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to acknowledge Delphine Theobald and Sanita Hochhauser for their contributions to the study, and staff at Orchard Lodge for their support.

Declaration of Interest

This study was partly funded by Janssen-Cilag Ltd, Saunderton, Bucks, HP14 4HJ, United Kingdom.