Self-esteem in children with attention-defi cit/ hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Introduction Attention-defi cit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children often manifests itself in diffi cult behaviors which may have an impact on their self-esteem. Findings from previous studies regarding self-esteem in children with ADHD are inconsistent. This study aimed to assess selfesteem in children with ADHD in comparison to healthy controls. Methods This was a cross-sectional study of children aged 8-15 years, who had been diagnosed with ADHD. Children of the same age and gender, without ADHD or chronic illnesses, were enrolled as a comparison group. Self-esteem assessment using the Five-Scale Test of Self-Esteem for Children (FSC) was completed by the children themselves. Results The study population included 130 children with a mean age of 11.05±2.21 years. Sixtyfive cases were ADHD and 65 were healthy controls. The mean FSC score in the ADHD group was signifi cantly lower than that of the control group indicating lower self-esteem in the ADHD group (45.06±8.08 vs 49.88±8.40, p=0.001). Among the children with ADHD, variables including age, gender, scores on school report, and comorbid conditions were not associated with the total self-esteem score. However, when focusing specifi cally on self-esteem subscales, the school report was signifi cantly related to the academic subscale of self-esteem in children with ADHD (β 0.81, 95%CI 0.11-1.5, p=0.03). Conclusion Findings from this study have suggested that children with ADHD perceive themselves more negatively compared with healthy controls. Fostering self-esteem should be included in the comprehensive care for children with ADHD.