Investigating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms, Emotional Dysregulation and Family Functioning in Children: A Community-Based Study in Elementary Schools in Surabaya, Indonesia

Objectives: Research on emotional dysregulation related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and its effects on family functioning in children is scarce. This is the first study conducted in Indonesia to examine the intricate relationships between ADHD symptoms, emotional regulation, and family functioning in children. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving primary caregivers of children aged 9–13 years old across three elementary schools in Surabaya, using validated questionnaires comprising the Indonesian ADHD Rating Scale, Emotion Regulation Checklist, and Family APGAR scale. Results: The findings revealed a positive association between ADHD features and the emotional lability/negativity subscale (ERLN) (r=0.528; p<0.001), but not the emotion regulation subscale (EREG). Moreover, family functioning positively correlated with ERLN (r=-0.269; p=0.003) and negatively correlated with EREG (r=0.331; p<0.001). Parental education emerged as a significant demographic factor, with higher education levels linked to better emotion regulation (r=0.297; p=0.001). Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of addressing ADHD symptoms and emotional dysregulation in children in order to enhance family functioning and overall well-being. Implications for future research and interventions targeting emotion regulation, especially in children with ADHD and their families, are also discussed.