Hyperactivity precedes conduct problems in preschool children: a longitudinal study

BACKGROUND: Externalising problems are among the most common symptoms of mental health problems in preschool children. AIMS: To investigate the development of externalising problems in preschool children over time, and the way in which conduct problems are linked to hyperactivity problems. METHOD: In this longitudinal study, 195 preschool children were included. Latent growth modelling of conduct problems was carried out, with gender and hyperactivity at year 1 as time-invariant predictors. RESULTS: Hyperactivity was a significant predictor for the intercept and slope of conduct problems. Children with more hyperactivity at year 1 had more conduct problems and a slower reduction in conduct problems. Gender was a significant predictor for the slope of conduct problems. CONCLUSIONS: Children with more initial hyperactivity have less of a reduction in conduct problems over time. It is important to consider the role of hyperactivity in studies of the development of conduct problems. DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None.