Peer-based differences among boys with ADHD

Examined the peer interactions and peer acceptance of three groups of boys ages 8 to 11 1/2 years: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), predominantly inattentive type; ADHD, combined type; and nonclinical controls (N = 45). Peer nominations were obtained from each boy's classroom. Newly acquainted peers consisting of boys from each of the 3 groups were observed for 3 play sessions, after which peer nominations were obtained. Both ADHD groups were more likely than nonclinical controls to receive lower social preference scores from peers in the classroom but not in the play groups. In both settings, boys from the predominantly inattentive group were more likely to be nominated as very shy, whereas boys from the combined type group were more likely to be nominated for starting fights and arguments. Observations of the play group showed that boys from the predominantly inattentive group displayed a marked pattern of social withdrawal. The findings suggest that the peer rejection experienced by these 2 groups may result from very different social behavior patterns.