Positive attitudes towards ADHD among diagnosed individuals: Divergent influences across symptoms
Background: Existing literature on adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) predominantly emphasizes its negative aspects. However, recent qualitative studies have found that some people with ADHD view their condition as including positive features. The aim of this study was to examine the association between patients’ symptoms profile and their degree of positive attitudes toward their ADHD. We hypothesized that patients with more severe symptoms would hold less positive attitudes toward their ADHD.
Methods: A survey questionnaire study across three independent samples of adults diagnosed with ADHD. Sample one included Hebrew-speaking participants (n = 84; age range: 18–40 years). Sample two included an international cohort of English-speaking participants from 24 countries (n = 126; age range: 18–64 years). Sample three included individuals with a research diagnosis, validated at the time of testing (n = 50; age range: 20–35 years).
Outcomes: The main outcome was assessed using a newly-developed self-report measure, the Positive Attitudes Toward ADHD Scale (Cronbach's α = 0.88, test-retest reliability r = .89). ADHD symptoms severity was measured using the Adult ADHD Self Report Scale (ASRS). Bayesian regression analysis revealed consistent results across all three samples. As predicted, greater severity of inattention symptoms predicted less positive attitudes towards ADHD. However, contrary to expectation, greater severity of hyperactive/impulsive symptoms was associated with more positive attitudes. No moderation effects were found for socioeconomic status, daily-functioning, knowledge of ADHD, or active treatment.
Interpretation: Individuals with ADHD vary considerably in how they view their condition. Here, for the first time, we find replicated evidence for differential predictions by symptom severity, with more severe inattention associated with less positivity and more severe hyperactivity/impulsivity associated with more positivity. Future research should delve into the underlying reasons for these associations, as a deeper understanding may help to develop and tailor intervention approaches.