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Abstract

Objective:

Self-determination theory suggests that the satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs—autonomy, competence, relatedness—are uniquely associated with overall well-being. Undergraduates with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience more academic-related impairment and are less likely to graduate. Thus, well-being is important to understand and aim to improve in these students.

Method:

Students at four universities (N = 2,197) completed a survey and reported previous diagnoses, ADHD symptoms, and psychological need satisfaction and frustration. Group differences were explored via t-tests; associations were explored via structural equation modeling.

Results:

The ADHD group reported lower satisfaction and higher frustration across all psychological needs. Inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity were uniquely associated with aspects of need fulfillment beyond the impact of comorbid symptoms. Sex differences emerged such that women with ADHD had the lowest overall need satisfaction.

Conclusions:

Addressing need fulfillment, both satisfaction and frustration, in interventions with undergraduates with clinical/subclinical levels of ADHD may optimize treatment effectiveness.

Keywords

attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder self-determination theory mental health basic psychological needs

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ADHD and Psychological Need Fulfillment in College Students

Abstract

Objective:

Method:

Results:

Conclusions:

Keywords

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References