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[Auditory processing disorder versus attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. A dysfunction complex or different entities?].

Abstract

BACKGROUND: It has been suggested that auditory processing disorders (APD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) may be the same entity with slightly differing symptoms. For testing this theory we compared parents' ratings of APD and ADHD behavioural characteristics. METHODS: A retrospective study was carried out with parents rating 312 children (113 girls and 199 boys; 6.0-9.11 years old, nonverbal intelligence IQ 95 or above) using APD and ADHD questionnaires. RESULTS: Significant, albeit weak correlations between several APD and ADHD subscale scores were found. Correlations between selective listening and attention behaviours approximated clinical relevance (rho >0.4). Factor analysis revealed two factors with APD behaviour loading on one and ADHD behaviour on a second different factor. Using a categorical approach, it appears that ADHD children have significantly more APD problems than children without ADHD. DISCUSSION: These data are consistent with the hypothesis that APD and ADHD overlap partly while still being distinct entities. In addition to dimensional aspects, the parents' rating may provide a guideline for establishing a diagnosis based on categorical distinctions.

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BibTeXRIS

M Ptok, N Buller, C Schwemmle, C Bergmann, K Lüerssen. 2006. [Auditory processing disorder versus attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. A dysfunction complex or different entities?].. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00106-005-1288-0

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