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), p redominantly inattentive type; ADHD, combined type; and nonclinical control s (N = 45). Peer nominations were obtained from each boy's classroom. Newly acquainted peers consisting of boys from each of the 3 groups were observe d for 3 play sessions, after which peer nominations were obtained. Both ADH D 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 gro up were more likely to be nominated for starting fights and arguments. Obse rvations of the play group showed that boys from the predominantly inattent ive group displayed a marked pattern of social withdrawal. The findings sug gest that the peer rejection experienced by these 2 groups may result from very different social behavior patterns.