Understanding the Link Between Physical Exercise, Autonomous Motivation, Exercise Dependence, and Adult ADHD Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background Physical Activity (PA) and Physical Exercise (PE) tends to reduce ADHD symptoms in children; however, the relationship might be more complicated within adults, and differ dependent on ADHD-symptom subtypes. Given the higher prevalence of addiction in individuals with ADHD, investigating the relationship between Exercise Dependence (ED), ADHD, and intrinsic/extrinsic motivations is crucial when considering PE as a potential intervention for ADHD. This cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between PE, ADHD symptoms, intrinsic/extrinsic motivation, and ED. Methods 152 adult participants (77.63% female) completed an online survey measuring: PE level (IPAQ-L); ADHD symptomatology (ADHD-RS-IV); subclinical ADHD diagnosis (ADHD-RS-IV); ED (EDS-R), and autonomous exercise motivation (BREQ-3). Results Positive correlations were found between ADHD symptomatology (total and hyperactive) with ED, and negative correlations were found between ADHD symptomatology (total and hyperactive) with autonomous exercise motivation. Additionally, a significant positive correlation was observed between ED and autonomous exercise motivation. Conclusions Promoting intrinsic exercise motivation in adults with ADHD could potentially lead to increased PE engagement. However, caution is advised, as intrinsic motivation was also positively associated with ED. Further research is needed to explore strategies for optimising the positive effects of motivation-related interventions, while mitigating potential risks.