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Are the performance overestimates given by boys with ADHD self-protective?
Jeneva L Ohan1, Charlotte Johnston
1Psychology Department, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
Summary
Boys with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may adjust social performance estimates realistically after positive feedback, unlike their peers without ADHD. This suggests a self-protective mechanism related to self-image in ADHD.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Child Development
Background:
- The self-protective hypothesis suggests individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may overestimate performance to maintain a positive self-image.
- Understanding self-perception in children with ADHD is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the self-protective hypothesis in boys with and without ADHD.
- To examine how performance feedback impacts social and academic self-perceptions in these groups.
Main Methods:
- Assessed 45 boys with ADHD and 43 boys without ADHD (ages 7-12).
- Administered performance feedback (positive, average, or none).
- Measured social and academic performance self-perceptions, self-esteem, and social desirability.
Main Results:
- Boys without ADHD increased social performance estimates after positive feedback.
- Boys with ADHD decreased social performance estimates after positive feedback, suggesting more realistic self-appraisals.
- Both groups increased academic performance estimates after positive feedback.
- Social performance estimates in boys with ADHD correlated with self-esteem and positive presentation bias.
Conclusions:
- The self-protective hypothesis explains social performance overestimations in boys with ADHD.
- Positive feedback may enable boys with ADHD to develop more realistic social self-appraisals.
- Alternative factors likely influence academic performance overestimations in boys with ADHD.