Gender Differences in the Relationship Between Changes in ADHD Symptoms, Executive Functions, and Self- and Parent-Report Depression Symptoms in Boys and Girls With ADHD: A 2-Year Follow-Up Study.

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the association between changes in ADHD symptoms, executive functions (EFs), and depression symptoms in girls and boys with ADHD over a 2-year period. Method: Thirty-six girls and 39 boys with ADHD, 18 typically developing (TD) girls and 29 TD boys (ages 9-16) were included. Assessments of EFs, ADHD symptoms, and self- and parent-report of depression symptoms were carried out. Results: For girls, a reduction of inattention symptoms was associated with a decline in parent-rated depression symptoms. A reduction in hyperactivity/impulsivity was associated with a reduction in self-rated depression symptoms in boys, and an increase in girls. A reduction in inattention symptoms was associated with a modest increase in self-rated depression symptoms in both boys and girls. Conclusion: Gathering information from both the parents and the child with ADHD is important in determining how gender may be influencing symptom profiles.