ATTENTION PROBLEMS VERSUS CONDUCT PROBLEMS AS 6-YEAR PREDICTORS OF PROBLEM SCORES IN A NATIONAL SAMPLE

Objective: To test the extent to which attention problems, the continu ation of early comorbid conduct problems, and overall initial problems account for poor outcome scores on the Child Behavior Checklist and r elated measures 3 and 6 years after initial assessment. Method: The co urse of attention and conduct problems was investigated in a nationall y representative US sample assessed three times over 6 years, using st andardized ratings of attention, conduct, and other problems and gende r-specific scores for defining deviance. Results: Subjects deviant on both attention and conduct problems scored significantly higher on beh avior problems at outcome than did those deviant on only attention pro blems or conduct problems. After controlling for initial conduct probl ems, initial attention problems made little unique contribution to lat er conduct problems. Predictive patterns were similar across gender an d age groups. Conclusions: Both boys and girls who show a combination of attention and conduct problems are at particular risk for the persi stence of conduct problems.