ADHD and Psychological Need Fulfillment in College Students. Issue 8 (June 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Serrano, Judah W.; Abu-Ramadan, Tamara M.; Vasko, John M.; Leopold, Daniel R.; Canu, Will H.; Willcutt, Erik G.; Hartung, Cynthia M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of attention disorders. Volume 27:Issue 8(2023)
• Page Start: 912
• Page End: 924
• Publication Date: 2023-06
• Subjects: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder -- self-determination theory -- mental health -- basic psychological needs; Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder -- Periodicals; Attention -- Periodicals; 616.8589
• DOI: 10.1177/10870547231161530
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1087-0547

Abstract

Objective: Self-determination theory suggests that the satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs—autonomy, competence, relatedness—are uniquely associated with overall well-being. Undergraduates with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience more academic-related impairment and are less likely to graduate. Thus, well-being is important to understand and aim to improve in these students. Method: Students at four universities ( N = 2, 197) completed a survey and reported previous diagnoses, ADHD symptoms, and psychological need satisfaction and frustration. Group differences were explored via t -tests; associations were explored via structural equation modeling. Results: The ADHD group reported lower satisfaction and higher frustration across all psychological needs. Inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity were uniquely associated with aspects of need fulfillment beyond the impact of comorbid symptoms. Sex differences emerged such that women with ADHD had the lowest overall need satisfaction. Conclusions: Addressing need fulfillment, both satisfaction and frustration, in interventions with undergraduates with clinical/subclinical levels of ADHD may optimize treatment effectiveness.