Depression and anxiety symptom severity on executive functioning in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Authors

Rossier, Alison Thérèse

Issue Date

2022

Degree

BA Hons in Psychology

Publisher

Dublin Business School

Rights

Items in eSource are protected by copyright. Previously published items are made available in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher/copyright holder.

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the impact of anxiety and depression symptom severity on executive functioning in adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Method: Thirty-one adults ranging from 18 to 72 years of age with a confirmed ADHD diagnosis took part in the study. The study was designed as an online experimental survey which used a self-administered mental health questionnaire to evaluate participants’ levels of depression and anxiety and two neuropsychological tests to assess three areas of executive functioning: working memory, flexible thinking, and inhibitory control. Results: Statistical analysis revealed no difference between symptom severity of depression and anxiety on working memory and inhibitory control although a significant difference was found in cognitive flexibility between symptom severity of depression and anxiety. Conclusion: Comorbidity between ADHD, anxiety and depression may impact only specific executive functions in adults.

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