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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder adults: comorbidities and adaptive impairments
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester 01655, USA.
Comprehensive Psychiatry
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) face higher risks of disruptive behaviors, job and school issues, and driving problems compared to those without ADHD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is increasingly recognized in adults.
- Limited research exists on the comorbidities and adaptive impairments of adult ADHD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare adults diagnosed with ADHD to a control group without ADHD.
- To investigate comorbidities and adaptive impairments in adult ADHD.
Main Methods:
- Compared 172 adults with ADHD to 30 adults without ADHD from an adult ADHD clinic.
- Assessed prevalence of oppositional, conduct, substance abuse disorders, psychological maladjustment, driving risks, employment, and educational history.
Main Results:
- Adults with ADHD showed higher rates of disruptive behavior disorders and illegal substance use.
- Adult ADHD was linked to greater psychological maladjustment, driving risks, and employment instability.
- Adults with ADHD had poorer educational performance and more school disciplinary actions.
Conclusions:
- Adult ADHD is associated with specific risks for disruptive behaviors, academic and occupational difficulties, and driving impairments.
- Anxiety and mood disorders were not more prevalent in adults with ADHD compared to controls in this study.