72 Neighborhood factors and ADHD

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: This project investigates how early childhood neighborhood factors influence attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) outcomes in adolescence. Poor neighborhood conditions have been linked to higher ADHD rates; however, the effects of these factors on academic achievement, social relationships, and risk-taking behaviors remain understudied. Methods/Study Population: A large, diverse, harmonized, cleaned dataset from a national multisite research program (Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO)) will be used. Neighborhood factors will be measured using geocoded, census-level indices of neighborhood quality: the Child Opportunity Index 3.0. Adolescent outcomes include self and caregiver-reported measures of comorbid psychopathology, risk-taking behavior, and academic and social functioning. A series of regression analyses will be conducted to examine the relationship between these variables. An estimated 6000 children are expected to be included in the analyses. Results/Anticipated Results: We expect that poorer neighborhood conditions, particularly low social and economic resources, will be associated with lower overall functioning in adolescence, and that this relationship will be stronger among adolescents with ADHD relative to those without ADHD. Discussion/Significance of Impact: By identifying risk and protective factors, this project will help identify potential prevention and treatment targets for a substantial number of youth and may inform policy efforts to improve resource equity and reduce existing disparities.