Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Primary School Chiangmai, Thailand

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorders. The estimated prevalence of ADHD worldwide ranges between 0.1–8.1%. In Thailand, the prevalence was estimated between 4.2 -8.1%. Public awareness about ADHD is increasing, yet very few studies have been done. This descriptive study was undertaken to identify the risk situation of ADHD among primary school students. Data were collected using the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham-IV rating scale (SNAP-IV) among parents and primary teachers of the classes. Descriptive statistical analysis, the Chi-square test, and Fisher's exact probability test were employed for data analysis. One hundred and nine students participated in the study, which consisted of 56 males (51.38%) and 53 females (48.62%). The risk situation of ADHD subtypes with the agreement of parents and teachers were inattention at 10.09% and hyperactivity at 5.50%. The risk situation of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) was 4.59%, with the parent-teacher agreement. Male students were more likely to be identified as at risk of ADHD symptoms inattention than female students (p < 0.05). In addition, the risk situation of ADHD and ODD was higher among students in lower levels of study (p < 0.05). These findings emphasize the importance of early screening of ADHD and also add to the existing literature by contributing data in understudied areas. These benefit schools and parents to plan for potential comprehensive interventions for the children at risk of ADHD.

Keywords

• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), primary school children, prevalence, snap-iv