Temperament and character dimensions associated with clinical characteristics and treatment outcome in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder boys.

BACKGROUND

Although differential patterns of temperament and character have been documented in subjects with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), few studies have investigated relations between these dimensions, clinical features of ADHD, and treatment outcome.

METHODS

Ninety-five boys with ADHD and 87 controls participated in the study; 88.5% of the referred patients were reassessed after optimal titration of methylphendiate treatment.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, boys with ADHD showed a temperament profile of high novelty seeking, low reward dependence, and persistence, as well as low scores on both self-determination and cooperativeness character dimensions. No significant differences were found between subjects with ADHD and controls in harm avoidance. Temperament and character traits were related to specific symptom domains and comorbidity but did not predict global severity of ADHD. Persistent and immature children with ADHD were more likely to experience short-term remission.