Behavior Patterns in Families of Boys with Learning and Behavior Problems

Abstract

Medical records of 88 boys seen as patients in a private pediatric practice were reviewed. Two sub-populations were studied: 44 boys with central language problems (oral language, reading, writing, and spelling) and 44 boys with central language problems and a diagnosed hyperactive behavior syndrome. A discriminant analysis yielded prediction equations for the two groups, which correctly classified members 78% of the time. Learning problems of later-born children and family members were associated with the first group. The best predictor of membership in the group with language problems and diagnosed hyperactivity was family alcohol problems. To a lesser degree, family hyperactivity was also a predictor for this group. Forty-three percent of the total variability of the discriminant function was attributable to differences between the groups.