Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by inattention and/or hyperactivity or impulsivity (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, American Psychiatric Association, 2000). The prevalence of ADHD is estimated to be 4.4% in American adults (Kessler et al., 2006).

Research suggests that adults with ADHD have impaired social and interpersonal functioning (Paulson et al., 2005; Canu & Carlson, 2007). In particular, adults with ADHD often exhibit poor romantic relationship functioning (Overbey et al., 2011; Canu & Carlson, 2003), including marital problems, which clinicians report are the most common presenting problem for adults with ADHD (Dixon, 1995; Weiss et al., 1999).

Emerging adulthood (ages 18 - 25) is a distinct stage of life between adolescence and adulthood. Very little research has assessed the association between ADHD symptoms and relationship functioning in this period of life, during which individuals typically face stressors unique to both adolescence and adulthood. We are interested in exploring how ADHD symptoms are related to romantic relationship functioning in college students who are emerging adults.

Preliminary findings support an association between ADHD symptoms and relationship functioning in emerging adult women, which are largely accounted for by negative communication patterns. If you’d like to learn more, feel free to read a manuscript from this study.