An analysis of data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study found that negative emotionality—the tendency to experience frequent and intense negative emotions—in infancy was associated with maltreatment at ages 5 and 9. Children with higher negative emotionality as infants also tended to exhibit more severe ADHD symptoms at age 9. This research was published in Development and Psychopathology.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning or development. It typically begins in childhood but can continue into adulthood. Symptoms of inattention include difficulty focusing, organizing tasks, and following through on instructions, while hyperactivity and impulsivity manifest as restlessness, excessive talking, or acting without thinking.
ADHD affects between 6% and 7% of children and is more common in boys. While ADHD has high heritability, multiple environmental factors might influence the risk of developing the disorder. One such factor is childhood maltreatment—specifically experiences of abuse and neglect, particularly during early childhood.
Study authors Dennis Golm and Valerie Brandt hypothesized that infants with difficult temperaments might be more likely to experience maltreatment, which in turn could increase the risk of ADHD later in life. Additionally, ADHD symptoms, once developed, might further increase the likelihood of maltreatment.