Preferences for social support and perceived support gaps among attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) adults

Abstract

This study explores the social support desires and potential support gaps experienced by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) adults. ADHD adults who were in a romantic relationship (N = 286) reported the amount of support they desire and experience from their romantic partner, as well as the intensity of three ADHD symptoms: emotional dysregulation, hyperactivity, and inattention. This study suggests that for ADHD adults the experience of receiving social support both overlaps with and, at times, diverges from prior research on social support that is typically conducted within neurotypical populations. Future research should further investigate how ADHD adults experience different forms of social support and other important relational messages.

Keywords

ADHD attention-deficit/hyperactivity emotional dysregulation hurt mixed methods neurodiversity social support support gaps

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