Sex and Developmental Differences in the Prevalence of Disruptive Behavior Disorder Symptoms in a Pediatric Sample

Abstract

Research on the Disruptive Behavior Disorders (DBDs) has historically been based on boys. Results from previous research suggest that more boys than girls have DBD symptoms (e.g., hyperactivity, oppositionality, conduct problems), but these differences vary across studies. Thus, more research is needed to fully understand sex differences in the DBDs. The current study gathered data from the parents of 74, 3- to 12-year-old children who completed mental health screeners at a pediatric visit. Sex by age interactions emerged such that in the preschool age group (3- to 5-year-olds) girls were reported to have higher DBD levels than boys. However, in the middle childhood (6- to 8-year-olds) and early adolescent (9- to 12-year-olds) groups, the pattern was reversed such that boys were reported to have higher levels of DBD symptoms. Thus, to understand sex differences, consideration must also be given to developmental level.