Comparison of Emotional Regulation and Self-Control in Children with and without Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Background and Problems and maladaptation experience by children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder are indicative of the need for further attention to this disorder. Present study aimed to compare emotional regulation and self-control in children with and without attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder. Present study was a descriptive causal- comparative research. The study population consisted of all the students with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in special schools in Rasht in 1393-94 academic year. Sample consisted of 40 students that were selected using random multistage cluster sampling method. Then, 40 students without attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder were selected from public schools as the control group. Two groups were matched in terms of their age (8 to 12 years) and IQ scores (90 to 110). Participants completed Child Symptom Inventory-4, self-control scale, emotional regulation Questionnaire, and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for children. Results of independent sample t-test and analysis of variance showed that the groups differ significantly in terms of their cognitive re-evaluation, emotional inhibition, and self-control. Improving emotional regulation skills and self-control in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder can reduce their interpersonal, social, and educational problems.