Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research
Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research

Association between ADHD symptom severity and motor activity in preschool children: A cross-sectional study

Adnan Faris Naufal (Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Chevanya Diva Titania Davinci (Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Anida Azkia Fitri (Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)



Article Info

Publish Date
24 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Objective measurement of motor activity may complement parent-reported assessment of ADHD symptoms. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the association between ADHD Rating Scale-5 scores and step counts, used as an objective indicator of motor activity, among children aged 4–6 years. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 110 children aged 4–6 years selected through purposive sampling. ADHD symptoms were assessed using the parent-completed ADHD Rating Scale-5, while step counts were measured using a digital pedometer during a 15-minute school recess. Data normality was assessed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Pearson's product–moment correlation was used to examine the association between total ADHD Rating Scale-5 scores and step counts, whereas Spearman's rank correlation was used for the Inattention and Hyperactivity–Impulsivity domain scores. Results: Total ADHD Rating Scale-5 scores showed a very strong positive correlation with step counts (r = .865, p < .001). At the domain level, Inattention scores showed a strong positive correlation with step counts (ρ = .756, p < .001), while Hyperactivity–Impulsivity scores showed a very strong positive correlation (ρ = .818, p < .001). Conclusions: Higher ADHD symptom scores were strongly associated with higher motor activity, as indicated by step counts, among preschool children. Step-count measurement may provide a simple objective measure that complements parent-reported assessment of ADHD symptoms; however, it should not be interpreted as a diagnostic measure for ADHD.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

pes

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

The Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research is an international peer-reviewed journal that publishes original research papers and reviews the fields of physical education, physical rehabilitation, and sports training. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research published two ...