Impact of Maternal and Child Race on Maternal Ratings of ADHD Symptoms in Black and White Boys

Abstract

Objective: Examine the influence of maternal and child race on ADHD symptom ratings. Method: Participants were Black (n = 63) and White (n = 68) mothers randomly assigned to view a 13-min videotape of either a Black or White boy displaying similar levels of ADHD-related behaviors during free play and meal situations. Mothers then completed an ADHD rating scale. Results: With maternal age and socioeconomic status (SES) as covariates, Black mothers provided significantly higher ratings of inattentive and hyperactive–impulsive symptoms than did White mothers regardless of child race. The effect of child race was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Maternal race appears to be more important than child race in accounting for differences in ADHD symptom ratings between Black and White boys. It is critical to understand variables related to these differences and develop assessment measures that lead to equivalent, accurate diagnostic decisions across racial subgroups.