Parent-child interactions in families of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Approximately four percent of children in elementary schools suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This disorder places children at an increased risk for developing problems such as antisocial behaviour, substance abuse and career difficulties. Carla Seipp is examining whether parents’ responsiveness to a child may be an important influence on the risks and impairments associated with ADHD. Carla will compare responsiveness during interactions between mothers and sons with ADHD, and mothers and sons with no behavioural difficulties. By focusing on the family environments of children with ADHD, Carla hopes to identify parenting behaviours that could reduce the risks and impairments associated with the disorder.