Reading comprehension abilities of children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

This study compared the reading comprehension abilities of 21 children with Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), to 21 carefully matched peers who did not have ADHD. To focus on the effect of ADHD on reading comprehension, variables known to affect this skill were controlled (word identification) or measured (word attack, reading speed, vocabulary, background knowledge). Children with ADHD obtained lower reading comprehension test scores than did peers without this disorder. However, results failed to support the hypotheses that there would be an interaction between group membership (ADHD and non- ADHD) and level of reading comprehension (macroprocessing versus microprocessing), and that children with ADHD would have difficulty monitoring the accuracy of their comprehension. Instructional, assessment, and theoretical implications of these findings were discussed.