Prediction of Educational Attainment and Occupational Functioning in Young Adults With a Childhood Diagnosis of ADHD: Results from the Cologne Adaptive Multimodal Treatment (CAMT) Study

Abstract

Objective: This longitudinal study examined early predictors of educational attainment and occupational functioning in adults with a childhood diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Method: Participants (n = 70) of the Cologne Adaptive Multimodal Treatment (CAMT) Study were diagnosed with ADHD and received adaptive multimodal ADHD treatment during childhood. They were then followed through adolescence into adulthood.

Results: Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that poor reading skill and externalizing behaviors in childhood were early predictors of educational and occupational difficulties in adulthood. The use of stimulant medication in childhood predicted lower high school achievement, probably because medication use was confounded by indication. The regression models improved when intelligence scores and/or externalizing behaviors, especially delinquency, assessed in adolescence were considered as additional predictors.

Conclusion: Children with ADHD, who continue to show reading difficulties and externalizing behavior problems after initial treatment, are at risk for educational and occupational difficulties and may need additional support.

Keywords: ADHD; educational attainment; occupational functioning; prediction; prospective study.