Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental neurobiological condition characterised by elevated levels of inattention, and or hyperactivity and impulsive behaviours that arise in early childhood and cause functional impairment in multiple settings. Originally conceptualised as a disorder of childhood ADHD is now considered a valid clinical entity in adulthood, associated with significant impairment in cognitive, educational, vocational and interpersonal domains. ADHD is associated with different sets of challenges at each developmental stage. This thesis reviews the emerging literature examining ADHD in adulthood and considers the evidence suggesting the disorder is associated with increased risk for specific impairment in multiple domains.
This study explored the influence of ADHD symptoms on young adults' adjustment to university life across three domains: academic achievement, self-esteem and interpersonal competence. University students (N= 109) completed measures of current and retrospective ADHD, depression, anxiety, aggression, self-esteem and interpersonal competence. Permission was sought to obtain information regarding each students academic performance. Results indicated that higher levels of ADHD symptoms were associated with poorer academic achievement but not with lower self- esteem or interpersonal communication difficulties. The strengths and limitations of the research are outlined, and finally the contributions to theory, research and clinical practice are presented