Application of the Conners' scale in children with academic underachievement

*Correspondence: [e-mail].

Abstract

Background: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder diagnosed in childhood and is characterized by inattention, impulsivity and excessive motor activity, which impairs the neurocognitive development of these children. Thus, it is a problem that requires attention and care. Screening by trained professionals is essential for early diagnosis and treatment. One of the forms of diagnostic screening is the use of the Conners' Scale filled by parents or guardians.

Objective: Application of the Conners' Scale–Brazilian Version by Rosa Neto for screening of ADHD in children with academic underachievement.

Methods: Conners' Scale-Rosa Neto’s Brazilian Version was applied in students with low academic performance at a university hospital. For this research the following cutoff points of the scale were used: Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: 10; Attention Deficit: 10; Conduct Disorder: 11; Hyperactivity + Attention Deficit: 18; and global ADHD: 30.

Results: Eighty-one medical records were evaluated, of which, 63 had the Conners' Scale filled; 43 (68.2%) were male and 20 (31.7%) were female. Age ranged from 6 to 13 years old (average: 7.3). Concerning grades, it ranged from 1st to 8th grades of elementary school, with the 3rd grade being the most frequent. Regarding the diagnosis, 18 (28.5%) scored for Hyperactivity/Impulsivity, 15 (83%) boys and three (17%) girls. Thirty-six (57.1%) scored in Attention Deficit, being 23 (64%) male and 13 (36%) female. Twenty-two (34.9%) scored for Conduct Disorder, 16 (50%) boys and six (19%) girls. Thirty-one (49.2%) scored for Hyperactivity + Attention Deficit, 22 (71%) male and nine (29%) female. Twenty-three (36.5%) scored for overall ADHD, 17 (51%) boys and six (18%) girls. Furthermore, 10 (15.8%) scored only in one category, four girls and six boys. Seven (11.1%) scored only for Attention Deficit, three girls and four boys. Two (3.1%) scored only for Conduct Disorder, one boy and one girl, and one male (1.5%) scored only for Hyperactivity/Impulsivity. Among the students, 19 (30%) did not score for any disorder, 13 (20.6%) males and six (9.5%) females.

Conclusion: In this study, there was a predominance of Attention-Deficit Disorder followed by Hyperactivity + Attention Deficit. There was a predominance of males, externalizing problems such ADHD are most common in boys, as evidenced in the literature.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
12. Mai 2025