Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026
05:32
Comparing Eye-tracking Data of Children with High-functioning ASD, Comorbid ADHD, and of a Control Watching Social Videos
Published on: December 7, 2018
ADHD Symptoms, Maladaptive Schemas, and Dysfunctional Automatic Thoughts: Exploring Theorized Relationships in
Christie T Pickel1, Brian T Wymbs1
1Ohio University, Athens, USA.
Journal of Attention Disorders
|August 13, 2026
Summary
This study shows that for adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), negative automatic thoughts and core beliefs about self-control are linked to impairment. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) should address these thoughts and beliefs.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) posits that maladaptive cognitions contribute to distress and impairment.
- Empirical support linking ADHD symptoms, maladaptive schemas, negative automatic thoughts (NAT), overly-positive avoidant thoughts (OPAT), and impairment is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cognitive-behavioral framework for adult ADHD in a community sample.
- To test the relationships between ADHD symptoms, maladaptive schemas, and dysfunctional automatic thoughts.
- To examine how these cognitive factors relate to impairment in emerging adults.
Main Methods:
- A community sample of 141 emerging adults (mean age = 19.84) was assessed.
- Hierarchical stepwise regressions were used to analyze data.
- Covariates included age, sex, and self-reported anxiety and depression symptoms.
Main Results:
- ADHD symptoms and maladaptive schemas (Insufficient Self-Control, Dependence/Incompetence) predicted OPAT.
- Maladaptive schemas (Insufficient Self-Control, Failure to Achieve) were associated with NAT.
- ADHD symptoms and NAT were positively related to impairment.
Conclusions:
- Results support the cognitive-behavioral framework for adult ADHD.
- Clinicians should target NAT and core beliefs (e.g., insufficient self-control) in CBT for ADHD-related impairment.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:42Schemas
A schema is a mental construct consisting of a cluster or collection of related concepts (Bartlett, 1932). There are many different types of schemata, and they all have one thing in common: schemata are a method of organizing information that allows the brain to work more efficiently. When a schema is activated, the brain makes immediate assumptions about the person or object being observed.
01:24Revisionist Views of Adolescent and Adult Cognition
A revisionist approach to Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development has brought new insights that challenge and reinterpret his established ideas. Piaget proposed that the formal operational stage, emerging in adolescence, represents the culmination of cognitive maturity. During this stage, individuals are said to develop abstract thinking, engage in systematic problem-solving, and show a form of egocentrism, believing others are as preoccupied with their behavior as they are themselves.
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:27Emerging Adulthood
Jeffrey Arnett's concept of emerging adulthood offers a framework to understand the unique developmental stage between adolescence and full-fledged adulthood, generally from ages 18 to 25. This period is marked by extensive exploration and shifts in identity, relationships, and career choices, a process known in psychology as role experimentation. Emerging adulthood reflects the evolving cultural expectations surrounding adulthood and the dynamic process of personal transformation during this...