Estudio descriptivo del trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad (TDAH)perfil psicoeducativo y comorbilidad en los diferentes subtipos

Abstract

Abstract: The main aim of this study was to know and to study the psychoeducational traits (cognitive and personality characteristics) and the comorbidity profile (Oppositional Defiant Disorder or ODD) of different subtypes of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The sample consisted of 121 adolescents living at the Region of Murcia (Spain), aged between 12 and 18 years (mean age = 13.9 years, SD = 1.7), all enrolled in public and private schools, of which 81.8% were men and 18.2% women. The Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test (K-BIT) and the 16PF Adolescent Personality Questionnaire (APQ) were completed by the adolescent's sample. In addition, information from family and teachers about ADHD (subtype and comorbidity) was collected through scales based on the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, with clinical evaluation being completed by a specialist in ADHD. As for the subtypes of ADHD, no cases of hyperactive-impulsive predominance were found. 57% had combined subtype and 43% inattentive subtype. Regarding comorbidities studied, 47.9% showed TND, compared with 52.1% who had not. This disorder was significantly more common in the combined subtype (77.6%) than in the inattentive one (22.4%). No significant differences were founded between the two subtypes in K-BIT scores, nor the presence of comorbid ODD seemed to condition cognitive performance. However, other significant personality differences were detected in some factors of the primary scales (Animation, Sensitivity, Surveillance, Apprehension, and Perfectionism), of the daily difficulties (Discouragement), and of the global dimensions (Independence) of the APQ. The combined subtype showed a personality profile more lively, spontaneous and active (extroverted), and more subjective and focused on their tastes and interests. By contrast, the inattentive subtype was shown to be more confident and adaptable, more carefree, safe with his image and perfectionist, while more dependent. Furthermore, adolescents with ADHD and ODD had significantly lower scores in Emotional Stability, and higher scores in Surveillance and Discouragement. These results are consistent with previous literature, while suggesting the need to continue in this line of research, incorporating, inter alia, the diversity of comorbidities.