Mind-wandering is a common cognitive experience that may be particularly salient in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and clinical relevance of mind-wandering in this population.
Method:
We retrospectively analyzed data from 440 psychiatric outpatients aged 10–19 years (ADHD: n = 137; non-ADHD: n = 303) who visited a university hospital between 2023 and 2025. Mind-wandering was assessed using the Mind-Wandering Questionnaire (MWQ). Group differences in MWQ scores were examined using analysis of covariance, controlling for age, sex, Autism-Spectrum Quotient, and Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology. Additional analyses compared ADHD-only with ADHD plus autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comorbidity, and hierarchical regression was conducted to determine the independent contribution of ADHD to mind-wandering.
Results:
Adolescents with ADHD reported significantly higher MWQ scores than those without ADHD (p < .001, Cohen’s d = 0.92), and this difference remained significant after covariate adjustment (η² = 0.098). No significant difference was observed between the ADHD-only and ADHD + ASD groups (p = .737). Hierarchical regression confirmed that ADHD independently predicted mind-wandering scores (β = 0.320, p < .001).
Conclusion:
Adolescents with ADHD exhibit elevated mind-wandering, which may represent a core attentional characteristic independent of comorbidities or demographic factors. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying mind-wandering in ADHD and to evaluate potential interventions aimed at reducing its impact.
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