Experiences of criticism in adults with ADHD: A qualitative study

Summary & key facts

Attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common, long‑term condition that begins in childhood. The main symptoms are trouble paying attention, having too much activity, and acting without thinking. These symptoms can cause problems at home, at school or work, and in relationships. About 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults are estimated to have ADHD. Diagnosis looks for persistent symptoms that began before age 12, have lasted at least six months, and cause difficulties in more than one setting.

Key facts:

• ADHD's main symptoms are inattention (trouble keeping focus), hyperactivity (excess movement), and impulsivity (acting without thinking).
• An estimated 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults have ADHD (sources cited in the page).
• For an ADHD diagnosis in adolescents or adults, symptoms must have started before age 12 and caused problems in more than one setting (for example, at home and at school or work).
• Symptoms must be persistent and noticeable for at least six months to meet diagnostic criteria.
• ADHD can be divided into three presentations: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and combined presentation.
• The page notes that adults with ADHD may experience low self‑worth and greater sensitivity to criticism, and that girls may show more inattentive symptoms (like daydreaming) which can be less obvious than boys' hyperactive symptoms.

Abstract

People with ADHD are at high risk of receiving criticism from others, yet criticism has not been well researched in this population. This study aimed to provide a rich understanding of what experiences adults with ADHD traits have with criticism. As part of a larger study, 162 participants with ADHD and high ADHD traits provided a written response to an open question asking about their experiences of criticism from other people. Thematic analysis was used to identify five common themes in the responses. Behaviours associated with inattention were perceived as the most criticised, whilst impulsive behaviours were mostly criticised in social contexts. Criticism was perceived via numerous conducts and was reported to have negative consequences for self-worth and wellbeing. To cope, some participants avoided criticism or changed how they reacted, including trying to accept themselves as they are. The responses indicated that receiving understanding from others played an important role in whether criticism was perceived. Overall, the findings highlight the need for more knowledge, understanding and acceptance towards neurodiversity from the general population.

Topics

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Behavioral and Psychological Studies Neural and Behavioral Psychology Studies

Categories

Health Sciences Medicine Psychiatry and Mental health

Tags

Art Criticism Developmental psychology Environmental health Literature Medicine Population Psychology Qualitative research Social psychology Social science Sociology Thematic analysis