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Psychological and academic functioning in college students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
E Heiligenstein1, G Guenther, A Levy
1University Health Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA.
Journal of American College Health : J of ACH
|January 27, 1999
Summary
College students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) experience significant academic challenges, including lower GPAs and more academic problems. Their difficulties appear more akin to learning disorders than typical ADHD symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is increasingly recognized in adults.
- Little research exists on ADHD-related impairments specifically in college students.
- Understanding these challenges is crucial for academic support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess psychological and academic impairments in college students with ADHD.
- To compare these impairments with a control group.
- To identify specific patterns of impairment in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of college students.
- Utilized specifically defined diagnostic criteria for ADHD.
- Compared students diagnosed with ADHD to a control group.
Main Results:
- Students with ADHD had significantly lower GPAs.
- ADHD group members were more likely to be on academic probation.
- The ADHD group reported significantly more academic problems, but not significantly different psychological impairments compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- College students with ADHD exhibit a distinct pattern of academic impairment.
- These academic issues may resemble learning disorders more than DSM-IV conceptualizations of ADHD.
- Further research is needed to tailor interventions for academic success in college students with ADHD.