Abstract
Objective:
The aim of this study is to investigate the psychological problems in parents of children with Attention Defi cit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and family functioning in these families.
Method:
The study involved parents of 43 children between the ages of 6 and 17 with ADHD diagnosis on the basis of DSM IV diagnostic criteria. Parents of 38 children between the ages of 6 and 17 without ADHD and Disruptive Behavior Disorders (DBD) were recruited as a control group. The psychological symptoms of parents were assessed by SCL-90 and family functioning was assessed by Family Assessment Device (FAD).
Results:
Parents of children with ADHD had more psychological symptoms than the parents of the control group. The families of children with ADHD had more family dysfunction in problem solving, roles, affective involvement and general functioning subscales.
Discussion:
DBD comorbidity in children with ADHD has more negative effects on parent psychopathology and family functioning rather than ADHD without DBD.
Keywords: Attention defi cit hyperactivity disorder, family functioning, parental psychopathology.
