Between Isolation and Loneliness: Social Networks and Perceived Integration with Peers of Children Diagnosed with ADHD in Regular Classrooms

Individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are characterized by a number of social deficits. The aim of the current study was to investigate the associations between ADHD diagnosis and social relationships among children from primary schools. Findings revealed that ADHD may contribute to both objective (social isolation) and subjective (dissatisfaction with peer relations) social problems. Children with a diagnosis of ADHD were more likely to have a "rejected" and "neglected" status and viewed their peer relations more negatively than children without this diagnosis. The effect of ADHD diagnosis on perceived integration with peers was found to be fully mediated by sociometric status. Our results underscore the relevance of social aspects of ADHD, which need to be addressed in the therapeutic programs. Interventions aiming to promote a positive image of children with ADHD among their peers should also be undertaken. [For the complete Volume 12 proceedings, see ED597979.]