Abstract
This study reports on the relationship between ADHD and insecure attachment in boys. Little consideration has been given to the role of family relationships in ADHD over the years. Recently the literature has begun to recognise the importance of family dynamics and interactions. Attachment theory has begun to be acknowledged as an important perspective when understanding the aetiological development of ADHD. The current study builds on recent research by comparing seventeen boys, aged 6-10 years with a diagnosis of ADHD to sixteen boys, aged 6-10 years with behavioural difficulties but no ADHD diagnosis, on The Family Drawing Test measure of attachment. Some support was found for the hypothesis that the attachment relationships of the boys with ADHD would be characterised by greater insecurity than those of the control group boys. Further research needs to be completed to address the methodological limitations of this study. However it can be concluded that it is essential that a comprehensive assessment and treatment package, which includes family interaction patterns, is provided for those children who present with symptoms of ADHD.