Confirmatory factor analysis was used to model a multitrait-multisource design to evaluate the construct validity of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) rating scales. The 2 trait factors were the ADHD inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity dimensions. The 2 source factors were parents and teachers. In Study 1, parents and teachers rated 1,475 Australian elementary school children on the ADHD symptoms. In Study 2, parents and teachers rated 285 Brazilian elementary school children on the ADHD symptoms. Similar results occurred in both studies with most of the ADHD symptoms containing more source than trait variance, thus providing weak evidence for the convergent and discriminant validity of the symptoms as measured by rating scales. The study outlines the implications of such strong source effects for understanding ADHD.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Research Division:	Psychology
Research Group:	Social and personality psychology
Research Field:	Personality and individual differences
Objective Division:	Health
Objective Group:	Public health (excl. specific population health)
Objective Field:	Mental health
UTAS Author:	Gomez, R (Professor Rapson Gomez)
ID Code:	62899
Year Published:	2003
Web of Science® Times Cited:	80
Deposited By:	Psychology
Deposited On:	2010-03-30
Last Modified:	2010-05-05
Downloads:	0