A qualitative and quantitative study of self-reported positive characteristics of individuals with ADHD

Abstract

Research in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has had a clear focus on treatment and the dysfunction in specific situation associated with the condition. However, self-report, observational and anecdotal evidence indicates that there are also positive aspects associated with ADHD. Research on the potential positive features in individuals with an ADHD diagnosis is still limited, especially studies with larger representative samples. Here we performed qualitative research to identify positive aspects and strengths associated with ADHD in a large convenience sample from the Dutch organization for people with ADHD, dyslexia and dyscalculia. We sent out open-ended questionnaires to the members of the organization, asking what they consider to be positive aspects of their ADHD. From the responses of individuals with ADHD (n = 206), we extracted 116 codes, which were assigned to thirteen subthemes, which in turn led to five themes. These themes were: Creativity, Being dynamic, Flexibility, Socio-affective skills, and Higher-order cognitive skills. Core symptoms of ADHD such as impulsivity and hyperactivity were also considered positive aspects of ADHD by a minority of participants. After showing our results to a group of additional individuals with ADHD (focus group) they confirmed the identified positive aspects of ADHD. They also helped us with the interpretation of our findings and mentioned certain positive aspects to be a consequence of living with ADHD (being open minded and being honest). In conclusion, experiencing positive aspects seems to be common in ADHD as almost all participants reported positive aspect of ADHD, these aspects cover many different domains. Awareness about ADHD's strengths might help individuals with ADHD and their environment to better cope with, accept or embrace their diagnosis and for example make educational or occupational choices that fit them well. To incorporate these positive aspects in the understanding of ADHD, future research should focus on quantifying strengths in ADHD, and on investigating the link between these aspects and clinical characteristics and how this new knowledge can be implemented in psychoeducation and find its way to education and occupational settings.

Paradoxical career strengths and successes of ADHD adults: an evolving narrative

“…Career coaching has an extensive history of promoting a strength perspective. Schippers et al (2022) note that strengths can have positive or negative consequences depending on context. Pauwels (2015) cautioned that some of the most meaningfully positive life experiences are frequently inspired by negative circumstances and thus over-focus on the positive may be counterproductive.…”

“…Career coaching has an extensive history of promoting a strength perspective. Schippers et al. (2022) note that strengths can have positive or negative consequences depending on context.…”

“…A phenomenological study (Sedgwick et al, 2018) explored the character strengths of ADHDers, finding that positive attributes of ADHD can "support and sustain high functioning and flourishing" (p. 250). Schippers et al (2022) discuss the benefits of highlighting strengths during the ADHD diagnostic process, which remains a rarity in practice. Although not focused on careers and work, such research signposts that the ADHD study is becoming less deficit-focused.…”

Silver linings of ADHD: a thematic analysis of adults’ positive experiences with living with ADHD

“…[22][23][24][25] However, these studies have largely included small samples of high-functioning adults with ADHD. One exception is the study by Schippers et al, 26 which applied both qualitative and quantitative methods to examine perceived positive characteristics with ADHD in a large sample of 206 adults with ADHD. 26 Almost all of the participants in the study reported positive aspects related to ADHD, with core themes being creativity, being dynamic, flexibility, socioaffective skills and higher order cognitive skills.…”

Editorial: It is time to modernize the concept of ADHD!

“…This is fuelled, among others, by the realization that a minority of people with ADHD thrive and are, for example, successful entrepreneurs, comedians, or inventors (Hoogman, Stolte, Baas, & Kroesbergen, 2020). This suggests that ADHD is associated with positive traits and assets under some circumstances, which is indeed confirmed by many people with ADHD (Schippers et al, 2022). This positive side of ADHD, and protective factors that promote a positive life trajectory, have been largely understudied and left unexploited for treatment, prevention, or health promotion.…”