Empathy in 6-7 year old children with disruptive behavior disorders: neurobiological, psychological, behavioral and genetic assessment.

Empathy deficits in children with disruptive behavior disorders (DBD) have been
reported in clinical practice and previous research. A subgroup of chidren with
DBD with severe deficits in empathy and more agressive behavior probably
exists. Aggressive behavior possibly is not inhibited in this group because
they do not share the sadness or fear of others caused by their behavior. This
subgroup possibly has a different neurobiological profile and a stronger
genetic risk. A better understanding of differences might lead to more
comprehensive and individualized approaches to treatment.

The present study primarily focuses on differences between children with
behavioral disorders and children with autism spectrum disorders and normal
controls. Different aspects of empathy will be assessed: neurobiological,
psychological, behavioral and genetic. The relationship between all of the
above findings on empathy with severity of current and future aggressive
behavior and callous-unemotional traits will be examined.

The design is a case-control design, 5 groups will be compared: children with
DBD only, children with ADHD, children with comorbid DBD and ADHD, children
with autism specrtum disorders and normal controls. Additionally, we will
contact parents of children formerly assessed with DBD.
Within the group of children with DBD the relationship between measured empathy
and agressive behavior will be examined.

Burden and risks associated with participation are neglectable. All has been
done to make participation as pleasant and playfull as possible for the
participating children. Data will be collected in the own school-environment of
the child. Parents are given the opportunity to be present during assessment .