National Institute of Health: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children With High IQ: Results from a Population-Based Study
By: Maja Z. Katusic, B.S, Robert G. Voigt, M.D., Robert C. Colligan, Ph.D., Amy L. Weaver, M.S., Kendra J. Homan, M.A., and William J. Barbaresi, M.D.
Abstract:
“Objective —To compare the characteristics of children with ADHD who have high IQ versus normal and low IQ through long-term follow-up of children with ADHD from a population-based birth cohort.”
Conclusions—These findings suggest that ADHD is similar among children with high, normal and low IQ, although high IQ may favorably mediate some outcomes such as reading achievement. Diagnosis and treatment of ADHD are important for all children, regardless of cognitive ability.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurobehavioral disorder seen in children. Symptoms may be chronic and continue into adulthood. ADHD is a substantial and costly public health concern. Children with ADHD often have co-morbid psychiatric disorders, learning disabilities, and substance abuse.
Similar to the general population, children with ADHD may have a broad range of cognitive abilities. Previously, we reported that ADHD is more likely to be present in the context of developmental delay, at the level of borderline-to-mild intellectual disability. It has also been reported that children with ADHD tend to have an approximately 9 point lower intelligence quotient (IQ) score than children without the diagnosis. Nevertheless, the literature demonstrates the possibility of having both ADHD and high IQ. Children with a high IQ (full scale IQ greater than 120) are frequently referred to as “gifted”, although the precise definition of giftedness has been surrounded by controversy. According to the Marland Report, giftedness depends on many factors, including age of identification, screening procedures, and tests of creativity. A clear, comprehensive definition of “gifted and talented” is still needed in the literature, as well as an operationalized IQ score requirement to indicate giftedness.
The presence of high IQ within the ADHD population is an area of some controversy. The literature on the topic is primarily comprised of case reports and observations. Previous studies have suggested that misdiagnosis of ADHD in gifted children is a legitimate concern. According to Lovecky et. al., misdiagnosis of ADHD can occur in two directions. Gifted children with a lot of energy can be seen as having ADHD, especially those children who receive little or no academic stimulation. Alternatively, some gifted children with ADHD who can concentrate for long periods of time on areas of interest (i.e., hyperfocus) may not be diagnosed with ADHD.”
Read the paper here: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children With High IQ
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