Past Issues

Objective: This study was to examine the correlations of global self-esteem
with reinforcement sensitivity on the behavioral inhibition system and the behavioral
approach system (BIS/BAS), comorbid autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and
tic disorder, sociodemographic and attention defi cit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
characteristics, as well as internalizing and externalizing problems among adolescents
with ADHD. Methods: We recruited 287 adolescents aged 11-18 years with
diagnosis of ADHD in this study. Their levels of global self-esteem were assessed
using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Results: Adolescents with ADHD who
reported a higher level of BIS (p < 0.001) and a lower level of BAS (p < 0.05) reported
to have signifi cantly low global self-esteem. By comparison, those who
reported a lower degree of satisfaction in their family relationship (p < 0.001) and
more severe depressive (p < 0.001) and anxiety (p < 0.001) symptoms as well as
those who did not receive medication for ADHD (p < 0.05) reported to have signifi
cantly low global self-esteem. But the presences of comorbid ASD and tic disorder
were not signifi cantly associated with low global self-esteem. Conclusion:
Multiple dimensions of factors, including reinforcement sensitivity, family relationship,
depression and anxiety, and receiving medication for ADHD, were found
to be signifi cantly associated with global self-esteem in adolescents with ADHD.