Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale Research Articles

Vestibular and balance dysfunction in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and cognitive disengagement syndrome risk groups

Abstract Background In the past, cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were considered similar concepts. However, many differences have recently been identified between the two disorders, and they have been separated from each other. This study aims to investigate balance and vestibular function in individuals at high risk for ADHD and CDS. Materials and methods This study involved 60 college students. Participants were given the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and the Adult Concentration Inventory. Using the applied indices, participants with high and low risk for CDS and ADHD were identified. Every participant underwent static posturography, the video head impulse test (vHIT), and cervical vestibular myogenic-evoked potentials (cVEMP). Results People with low and high risk for CDS did not differ in terms of static posturography or cVEMP (p > 0.05). Similarly, no differences were found in ADHD (p > 0.05). While right ear lateral vHIT responses were worse in individuals with high-risk CDS (p > 0.05), bilateral posterior vHIT rates were worse in individuals with high-risk ADHD (p > 0.05). Conclusion The fact that individuals at high risk for CDS and ADHD show different vestibular involvement strengthens the fact that there are different clinical pictures.

The role of self-rumination and self-reflection in depressive symptoms among individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder traits

While some types of rumination have been reported as exacerbating factors in depressive symptoms related to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) traits, the role of self-rumination remains underexplored. Additionally, self-reflection—a similar form of private self-consciousness which may have protective effects—has been even less examined. This study of 3,000 Japanese adults (aged 18–50 years) investigates self-rumination and self-reflection in depressive symptoms related to ADHD, using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, Rumination–Reflection Questionnaire, and Beck Depression Inventory-II. Statistical analyses included Pearson’s correlation and linear regression for mediation/moderation. ADHD traits were correlated with depressive symptoms (r = 0.413, p < 0.001), mediated by self-rumination (indirect effect = 0.21, 95% confidence interval [0.17, 0.26]). Self-reflection was positively correlated with depressive symptoms (r = 0.193, p < 0.001) but had a protective effect when controlling for self-rumination (β = −0.75, p < 0.001). Moderated mediation analysis showed self-reflection reduced depressive symptoms related to ADHD traits by moderating both the impact of ADHD traits on self-rumination and the influence of self-rumination on depressive symptoms. These effects were particularly significant for inattention traits. Our findings suggest that self-reflection, by mitigating self-rumination, may serve as a therapeutic target for depressive symptoms in adults with ADHD traits.

General procrastination associated with the evening preference in healthy people but not with circadian rhythm sleep–wake disorders with phase delay

ABSTRACT Procrastination behavior has been reportedly associated with the evening preference. This study aimed to evaluate its difference between patients with circadian rhythm sleep–wake disorders with phase delay (CRSWDswPD) and healthy controls in terms of evening preference and comorbid psychiatric disorders. Thirty patients with CRSWDswPD and 29 healthy participants were included. In both groups, the general procrastination scale (GPS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) were administered. Additionally, Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and autism spectrum quotient (AQ) were also assessed in the patient group. Unexpectedly, GPS was not statistically different between patients with CRSWDswPD and healthy controls. GPS was significantly higher with lower MEQ in the healthy group, whereas the opposite tendency was observed in the patient group. Higher AQ, ASRS, and BDI tended to be associated with higher GPS in the patient group, with the first two being statistically significant. The results suggest that general procrastination is not significantly associated with CRSWDswPD, although it is associated with evening preference in healthy participants. Procrastination in the patient group may be associated with developmental disorders or depression tendencies. Future studies should include simultaneous measurement of circadian markers, other behavioral assessments, a larger population, and untreated patients.

Doctors with mental health difficulties and ADHD.

There is growing interest in understanding neurodevelopmental disorders such as Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among doctors. However, the current understanding of ADHD and its association with mental well-being in doctors is limited. This study investigated the significance of ADHD among doctors with mental health difficulties accessing a national mental health service for doctors in England. Electronic records from 2877 doctors seeking mental health care through the National Health Service Practitioner Health service were analysed. Demographic data, psychopathology scales (PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, Core-10 for psychological well-being) and ADHD screening using ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) were examined. Analyses were conducted to explore associations between ADHD screening, demographic variables and co-existing mental health disorders. The study revealed that over one-third (35%) of doctors in this study sample screened positive for ADHD using the ASRS questionnaire. The male-to-female ratio for screened positive was 1.1:1. The number of doctors screening positive for ADHD reduced with age. A substantial portion of doctors who screened positive for ADHD also exhibited symptoms of co-existing mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. This study highlights that assessments for ADHD among doctors presenting with mental health difficulties can be important and relevant. Validated screening tools can be used in this process. The high rate of psychopathology among those who screened positive for ADHD in this study sample indicates the need for detailed assessments to understand the complex dynamic of ADHD symptoms and psychiatric disorders. Recognizing ADHD is important as treatments are different to other psychiatric disorders.

Assessing the Construct Validity of the Adult ADHD Self-report Scale for DSM-5 and Prevalence of ADHD in a Danish Population Sample.

This study examines the validity of the ASRS-5 as a new screening tool for ADHD and evaluates its proposed screening cut-off in a general population context. A nationally representative sample of 2,002 individuals aged 18 to 80 years was surveyed using the ASRS-5, with complete data obtained from 714 participants. Psychometric analysis evaluated fit to the Rasch model, response categories, dimensionality, differential item functioning, local dependency, and reliability. A cut-off score of 14, based on a simple additive scale, was applied. The ASRS-5 generally conformed to the expectations of the Rasch model. However, disordered response categories were observed for item 6, and gender-related differential item functioning was noted in items 3, 4, and 6. The ASRS-5 demonstrated a unidimensional construct, and a cut-off score of 14 identified 6.0% of the sample as potential ADHD cases. Although the ASRS-5 aligns well with the Rasch model, certain measurement challenges exist. The recommended cut-off score effectively identifies an ADHD prevalence consistent with the 6.5% reported in the original ASRS-5 study.

Unraveling the insomnia puzzle: sleep reactivity, attention deficit hyperactivity symptoms, and insomnia severity in ADHD Patients.

Insomnia is the most common sleep problem among adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The severity of insomnia can exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD. Identifying the predictive factors that contribute to insomnia severity may be crucial in treating insomnia among adults with ADHD. One potential factor contributing to insomnia is sleep reactivity, which refers to the tendency to experience insomnia triggered by stress. This phenomenon, also known as vulnerability to stress-related insomnia, reflects the extent to which individuals are prone to developing insomnia in response to stressful situations. To date, sleep reactivity in adults with ADHD has not been studied. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sleep reactivity, attention deficit hyperactivity symptoms, and the severity of insomnia in adults with ADHD. This study included 61 adults with ADHD with no comorbid psychiatric or medical diseases and 61 adult healthy controls (HCs) matched for age, sex, body mass index, and years of education. All participants completed the sociodemographic data form, Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test (FIRST), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), and Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS). Sleep reactivity, insomnia severity, and poor sleep quality were higher in adults with ADHD compared to HCs. Higher sleep reactivity was associated with worse sleep outcomes in both groups, whereas higher sleep reactivity was associated with severe ADHD symptoms in the HCs group. In the ADHD group, insomnia severity was predicted by higher sleep reactivity, ASRS, and being female (R2 = 0.32, F (6, 61) = 4.36, p = 0.001), not age, ADHD medication use, and WURS. Our findings suggest that higher sleep reactivity, increased ADHD symptoms, and being female may predict the severity of insomnia in adults with ADHD.

Predicting Attitudes towards Extramarital Relationship Based on Sexual Satisfaction and Performance in Individuals with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Introduction: Extramarital relationships pose a challenge to family life and can negatively affect the mental health and well-being of family members. Various factors can contribute to the development of extramarital relationships. The present study aimed to predict attitudes towards extramarital relationships based on sexual satisfaction and performance in individuals with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methods: This study was correlational in nature. The study population included all married individuals seeking counseling and psychological services in Qazvin city in 2023, from which 216 individuals were selected by purposive sampling method. The World Health Organization ADHD self-report scale, Yeniceri and Kokdemir Extramarital Relationship Questionnaire, Larson Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire, and the Farajina Sexual Performance Questionnaire were used for data collection. Data analysis was performed using SPSS-25 software and multiple regression analysis. All inferential analyses were conducted at a significance level of 0/05. Rusults: The results indicated that sexual satisfaction (β = 0/19, t = 2/85) and sexual performance (β = 0/15, t = 2/26) could predict the variance of changes related to attitudes towards extramarital relationships. Conclusion: Based on the obtained results, it is recommended to provide couples with this awareness during premarital counseling so that they can discuss sexual issues with marriage counselors and specialists and receive specialized counseling if needed to prevent the tendency towards extramarital relationships.

Prevalence of working adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder impairment during the COVID-19 pandemic: Implications for the future

In this study; we analyzed the relationship between U.S. workers’ reported levels of ADHD symptomatology and the impact of pandemic conditions on symptomatic impairment and the estimated prevalence of Adult ADHD. We compared data from the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale Screener (ASRS) collected during the pandemic with data from two pre-pandemic studies. Our findings indicate that during the pandemic; mean impairment scores on all six ASRS items increased; leading to a predicted rise in the Adult ADHD diagnosis rate to 9.26%; compared to the pre-pandemic estimate of 4.4%. These results suggest that more adults experienced significant ADHD-related challenges during the pandemic. As organizations continue to implement remote work and other pandemic-related changes; it is important to consider the unique difficulties that neurodiverse workers; particularly those with ADHD; may face in adapting to these new work environments.

The 2D:4D ratios in the mothers of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Prenatal exposure to high levels of testosterone affects the development of the brain. The purpose of this study was to compare the mothers of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and those of healthy children in terms of the digit ratio (2D:4D). It also examines the relationship between ADHD symptoms and the 2D:4D in mothers. The mothers of 120 children with ADHD and of 61 healthy children were included in the study. 2D:4D were measured for both the patients and the healthy individuals, and sociodemographic data were examined. The mothers' ADHD symptoms were measured using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). The patient and control groups were compared in terms of 2D:4D values and ADHD symptoms. The relationship between 2D:4D and ADHD was also examined in the patient group. Maternal right 2D:4D (p<0.001) and left 2D:4D (p=0.003) values in the ADHD group were significantly lower than in the control group mothers. No association was also observed between the left hand and right 2D:4D ratios of the mothers in the case group and the ASRS- Hyperactivity or Attention Deficit subscales. Our findings add to the literature examining the relationship between prenatal exposure to testosterone and ADHD. This study shows that the mothers of children with ADHD are exposed to greater prenatal testosterone. In addition, it does not support the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to testosterone in the mothers of children with ADHD plays a role in the development of ADHD symptoms. Further studies examining this relationship in mothers are now needed.

Prevalence of Undiagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Primary pharmacologic interventions include stimulants and non-stimulants. Diagnosing ADHD is typically more difficult in women due to a range of different symptoms between the sexes. Although ADHD has had more advocacy recently, misdiagnoses are still common, resulting in ADHD being mistaken for other disorders. This study aims to decipher the prevalence of undiagnosed ADHD. A web-based survey was administered, comprising of a questionnaire derived from the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-V1.1), and two additional questions formulated to determine whether the individual was initially diagnosed with ADHD and whether they take medications for it. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale is split into two parts where part A determines the symptoms and part B further probes into specific symptoms. Amongst the cohort of 200, the percentage undiagnosed ADHD was 14%. 61% were women, while 39% were men. The first two questions on the ASRS-V1.1, pertaining to task completion, were the most statistically significant results. Although advocacy for ADHD has increased in the last twenty years, our study found that 14% of a layperson cohort are undiagnosed with ADHD. It appears that undiagnosed ADHD is more prevalent in women compared to men.

Seasonal changes in mood and behaviors in individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder trait.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder often accompanied by mood disorders such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), characterized by seasonal mood and behavioral changes. Although a genetic link between ADHD and SAD has been proposed, research on their relationship remains limited. An online questionnaire survey was conducted to explore the relationship between ADHD traits and seasonal mood changes. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ), measured by the General Seasonality Score (GSS), were used. From a sample of 3000 participants, a significant correlation was found between ASRS and GSS (r=0.42, p<0.001). Potential ADHD subjects had significantly higher GSS scores than non-ADHD subjects (mean 10.2 vs. 6.7, p<0.001). The prevalence of potential SAD during winter was higher among potential ADHD participants: 8.5% in potential ADHD participants, and 2.0% in non-ADHD participants (p<0.001). Further analyses indicated that possible ADHD participants experienced significant seasonal changes in body weight, sleep duration, and food preferences. Additional analyses using GSS as a covariate showed that changes in body weight and sleep duration were not solely due to GSS, whereas changes in food preference were significantly associated with GSS. This study demonstrated that individuals with ADHD traits are more susceptible to seasonal mood variations. Additionally, ADHD traits were significantly associated with seasonal changes in body weight, sleep patterns, and food preferences. These findings underscore the importance of considering seasonal factors in clinical settings to improve the quality of life for individuals with ADHD.

Impact of fear of coronavirus disease 2019 on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder traits associated with depressive symptoms, functional impairment, and low self-esteem in university students: a cross-sectional study with mediation analysis

High levels of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) traits are associated with various outcomes, including depressive symptoms, functional impairment, and low self-esteem. Additionally, individuals with high levels of ADHD traits are reported to be more adversely affected by fear of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The current study aimed to examine whether the association between ADHD traits and outcomes was partially mediated by fear of COVID-19 using mediation analysis. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of university students in medical-related faculties (n = 1,166). ADHD traits, fear of COVID-19, depressive symptoms, functional impairment, and self-esteem were assessed using the adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, Fear of COVID-19 Scale, K6 Scale, Sheehan Disability Scale, and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, respectively. We used linear regression analysis and the Paramed command in Stata to analyze whether fear of COVID-19 mediated the association between ADHD traits and outcomes. ADHD traits were significantly associated with outcomes. Regarding the impact of fear of COVID-19, the results revealed a significant association between ADHD traits and fear of COVID-19, and between fear of COVID-19 and outcomes. The results of the mediation analyses showed that the association between ADHD traits and outcomes was partially mediated by the fear of COVID-19 (depressive symptoms: direct effect B = 1.029, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.878, 1.181, indirect effect B = 0.021, 95% CI 0.002, 0.040; functional impairment: direct effect B = 0.786, 95% CI 0.593, 0.979, indirect effect B = 0.033, 95% CI 0.005, 0.060; self-esteem: direct effect B = -1.052, 95% CI -1.226, -0.878, indirect effect B = -0.024, 95% CI -0.046, -0.002). Developing preventive measures against the adverse impacts of pandemics like COVID-19 will be particularly important for individuals with high levels of ADHD traits in future.

ADHD and Text Comprehension: Comparing Virtual Reality and Real-Life Multitasking in an Academic Context

The impact of digital environments on academic performance, particularly among students with ADHD, has become a significant area of study, especially in the wake of increased online learning during the pandemic. This study evaluates how ADHD symptoms affect text comprehension -including accuracy, retention of quantitative and qualitative data, and logical and working memory - within multitasking academic settings in Virtual Reality (VR) and Real Life (VIVO). In our pilot experimental study, we have assessed 30 students (20 in VR and 10 in VIVO) from Greece and Romania. Participants were divided into four groups: a Control and an Experimental group for both VR and VIVO settings. The students were tasked with one (text), two (text and audio), or three (text, audio, and content creation) simultaneous activities to simulate multitasking. We utilized the Adult ADHD Self-report Scale (ASRS) and a grid of text comprehension to measure the impacts. The findings, analyzed through descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests, revealed significant differences (p=.000, χ^2=33.036) in text comprehension based on the environment (VR vs. VIVO), and the presence of ADHD symptoms. Notably, two-thirds of the participants scored above average for ADHD symptoms. Additionally, a comparison of ADHD symptoms scores from pre-tests to post-tests showed a decreasing trend, aligning with existing literature that supports managing ADHD symptoms through psychoeducation. These results underscore the varying effects of multitasking in academic settings on students with ADHD, and highlight the distinct challenges and benefits presented by VR and VIVO learning environments.

Assessing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Post-9/11 Veterans: Prevalence, Measurement Correspondence, and Comorbidity With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common among Veterans but overlapping symptoms with other prevalent psychiatric disorders (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD]) complicate diagnosis. This study aims to (1) assess the prevalence of ADHD, (2) evaluate the correspondence between ADHD self-report measures, and (3) examine the association between ADHD and PTSD in a sample of combat-deployed post-9/11 Veterans. A total of 332 combat-deployed post-9/11 Veterans from VA Boston Healthcare System completed the Clinician-Administered PTSD Rating Scale, 2 ADHD self-report questionnaires (Wender Utah Rating Scale-25 and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale v1.1), and report of the presence/absence of a historical ADHD diagnosis. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder status via Wender Utah Rating Scale ([WURS-25] criterion standard) was compared to historical ADHD diagnosis and the ASRSv.1.1 screener. Log-binomial regression models assessed the relationship between ADHD and PTSD. This study was reviewed and approved by the VA Boston Institutional Review Board. In all, 12.7% of the sample met criteria for ADHD per the WURS-25. The WURS-25 demonstrated poor sensitivity with historical ADHD diagnosis (27.7%) but adequate specificity (90.3%). Poor sensitivity (60.7%) and specificity (60.8%) were observed between the WURS-25 and the ASRS-v.1.1. The prevalence of ADHD was 2.5 times as high for Veterans with a history of PTSD (Prevalence Ratio [PR] = 2.53, 95% CI: 1.11, 7.28) and over twice as high for those with current PTSD (PR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.17, 4.38). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is prevalent in this sample of Veterans and is associated with an increased risk of current and lifetime PTSD. The low correspondence across self-report ADHD measures illustrates the complexity of assessing ADHD in this highly comorbid population. When evaluating ADHD in Veterans, clinicians should carefully consider alternative and contributory symptom etiologies, such as PTSD, to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.

The prevalence of undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among undergraduate medical students: a survey from Pakistan

BackgroundAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is now acknowledged as a significant public health concern, a persistent neurodevelopmental disorder. It poses challenges across various life domains, persisting into adulthood, and is often undiagnosed. From July 2023 to December 2023, this study investigated the prevalence, types, participants’ knowledge and perceptions, and demographic determinants of undiagnosed adult ADHD among undergraduate medical students in Pakistan.MethodsThis cross-sectional study enrolled 342 undergraduate medical students who fulfilled the selection criteria. The data was collected using an online self-administered survey consisting of three main parts using the WHO 18-question Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, Version 1.1 (ASRS-v1.1), to assess adult ADHD symptoms. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS (version 26.0).Results119 medical students, or 34.8%, had adult ADHD. Inattentive dominance was the most prevalent presentation at (86, 72.3%), followed by mixed dominance at (20, 16.8%), and hyperactive dominance at (13, 10.9%). There was a statistically significant (p < 0.05) association between individuals who screened positive for adult ADHD and had co-occurring psychological disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression) and a family history of psychiatric disorders (e.g., ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder). Additionally, these individuals perceived that individuals with adult ADHD could live a normal life despite their condition. While the type of ADHD was significantly associated with the use of medications for psychological disorders, it was significantly higher among hyperactive dominants (5,71.4%), and the family history of GAD was significantly higher (2,10.0%) among mixed dominants.ConclusionThis study reveals a significant prevalence of undiagnosed adult ADHD and an inattentive dominance among medical students in Pakistan, highlighting gaps in awareness and screening. These findings emphasize the crucial need for implementing ADHD screening programs.

Associations between ADHD symptoms, executive function and frontal EEG in college students

Introduction This study aims to assess whether electroencephalogram (EEG) spectral power change scores (e.g. task spectral power subtracted from resting state spectral power) across three different frequency bands, alpha (8–12 Hz), theta (4–7 Hz), and beta (13–30 Hz), predicts self-reported attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) over and above self-reported executive function (EF) abilities using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-A) Global Executive Composite (GEC) T-scores for adults. Methods Data were collected at a rural, mid-sized southeastern university (N = 52) and participants received course credit for participation. Participants self-reported ADHD symptoms and EF abilities before completing eyes open resting state and the attention network test (ANT), a common flanker task that measures ability to orient attention, stay alert, and resolve conflict (i.e. distractor arrows) while recording EEG spectral power at electrodes F3 and F4. Bivariate correlations determine associations between EEG measures and self-reported ADHD symptoms and EF abilities. Linear regressions were used to assess whether EEG change scores were predictive of ADHD symptoms over and above EF abilities. Results High correlation coefficients were found only when comparing the ASRS and BRIEF-A GEC T-scores (r = .822, p <.001). Regression analyses produced significant results indicating EEG spectral change scores were predictive of ADHD symptoms, over and above GEC T-Scores, for the alpha band but not the theta and beta bands. Additionally, we found an inverse relationship when comparing change scores in the alpha band across the right (F4) and left (F3) hemispheres supporting the theory of frontal asymmetry for individuals with increased ADHD symptoms. Conclusion This study is the first to assess the predictive ability of EEG spectral power change scores in predicting ADHD symptoms, which are not solely explained by deficits in executive control. Past research has indicated significant differences when comparing task and resting state spectral power indicating change scores might have some utility in measuring cognitive load, specifically in the alpha band, which has been associated with inhibition, working memory, and anticipation of stimuli. Further research should be conducted to assess the utility change scores might have in providing an objective measure related to a clinical population with ADHD.

Exploring the Relationship of Smartphone Addiction on Attention Deficit, Hyperactivity Symptoms, and Sleep Quality Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The prevalence of smartphone usage is steadily rising, leading to the potential development of addiction due to problematic use. This study examined the relationship between smartphone addiction, self-perceived attention deficit and hyperactivity symptoms, and sleep quality among 443 university students at Bingöl University. Participants completed several questionnaires, including the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale. This study examined 443 participants, with a mean age of 20.97±3.29, of whom 72.7% (n=322) were female. Results showed that the majority of participants primarily used smartphones (94.8%, n=420) for social media browsing (49.9%, n=221). Factors such as smoking, preference for smartphone screens, and prolonged screen exposure significantly affected sleep quality. Smartphone addiction rates were notable, with 50.4% (n=61) of males and 47.2% (n=152) of females being affected; this addiction was associated with poorer sleep quality. Correlations were found between age, sleep duration, and scores on smartphone addiction, sleep quality, and attention deficit scales. Linear regression analysis revealed that age, attention deficit scores, and sleep quality scores significantly influenced levels of smartphone addiction. These findings contribute valuable insights into the impact of smartphone addiction on attention and sleep in university students.

Examination of Changes in Levels of Empathy and Narcissistic Pathology After Treatment of Adult with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in narcissistic personality traits and empathy deficits in adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) after pharmacotherapy, focusing on psychostimulant treatment. Understanding these comorbidities is crucial for optimizing treatment and improving therapeutic outcomes. This cross-sectional cohort study consisted of 75 randomly selected ADHD patients. The patients were started on methylphenidate or atomoxetine as per the indications for treatment. A Sociodemographic Data Form, Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), Pathological Narcissism Inventory (PNI), and Empathy Quotient (EQ) were applied. Based on the study design, Adult ASRS, PNI and EQ were re-administered to the patients at the end of 3 months of treatment. The levels of pathological narcissism and empathy in patients were assessed before and after treatment. The median and minimum-maximum in PNI grandiosity score decreased significantly from 67.00 (30-108) before treatment to 60.00 (24-102) after treatment (P < .001). The mean ± Standard Deviation (SD) PNI Vulnerability score decreased statistically significantly from 63.83 ± 26.02 before treatment to 60.06 ± 24.64 after treatment (P = .003). The median and minimum-maximum in PNI total score was 134.50 (64-208) pre-treatment, which showed a statistically significant decrease after treatment (P < .001). The mean ± SD EQ score decreased statistically significantly from 33.86 ± 7.03 before treatment to 36.53 ± 7.55 after treatment (P = .001). Psychostimulant treatment in adult ADHD patients can ameliorate narcissistic traits and enhance empathy, thereby improving social functioning and interpersonal relationships. These findings suggest that psychostimulants may positively modulate neural circuits involved in narcissism and empathy, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes.

Gambling disorder and its associated factors in university students

Abstract Background Gambling disorder (GD) is defined as persistent and uncontrollable gambling behaviour that has negative effects on an individual’s life. This can lead to financial problems, poor academic performance, and health problems. GD has been associated with psychological disorders like depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We aimed to examine the gambling disorder and its associated factors in university students. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study among students at a university in Eskisehir (Türkiye) in 2024. A stratified random sample design was used. Five faculties were randomly selected. A total of 1,201 students were included according to the stratum weight of the faculties. A questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), and Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) was applied. Data were analysed through descriptive statistical analyses and multivariate logistic regression models. Results The mean age was 21.5±2.8 years, and 46.8% were male. While 48.7% of the students stated that they had gambled at least once, 2.2% had a gambling disorder. The three most common types of gambling played by students were stock market (28.2%), bet on sports (22.0%), and scratch cards (18.2%). In multivariate analysis, being male (Odds ratio-OR:6.5, 95%CI:1.4-29.8), having lost years during education (OR:2.7, 1.1-6.8), having relatives with gambling problems (OR:8.0, 1.8-36.2), investing greater amounts of money in gambling (OR:3.7, 1.0-13.0), and having a high probability of ADHD (OR:4.3, 1.4-12.8) were found to be predictors for GD. Conclusions Although about half of the students had engaged in gambling activities, only a small proportion showed signs of GD. We can conclude that being male, having lost years in education, having relatives with gambling problems, investing larger amounts of money in gambling, and having a higher probability of ADHD are predictors of GD among students. Key messages • Implementing educational campaigns at universities to raise awareness of the potential risks and consequences associated with GD could be beneficial. • It may be helpful if mental health services at the university were equipped to consider mental health conditions such as ADHD, that contribute to GD.

An investigation of the Bernstein’s strengths Scale: factorial validity and network analysis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity symptoms, mental health, and the strengths of the healthy adult self

BackgroundBernstein’s heuristic model of personal strengths describes 16 positive attributes of the healthy adult self, grouped into four higher-order factors: self-directedness (identity, self-reflection, self-confidence, self-assertion, imagination/creativity), self-regulation (emotional balance, resilience, self-control, self-care, reality testing), connection (empathy, compassion, humour, responsibility), and transcendence (gratitude and wisdom). The study aimed to explore the factorial validity of Bernstein’s Strengths Scale developed for the assessment of these constructs. Furthermore, we explored the association of strengths with attention-deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) symptoms and mental health in a nonclinical sample using a network approach.MethodsFive hundred and twenty-eight adults filled out an online questionnaire, including Bernstein’s Strengths Scale (BSS), the Mental Health Continuum – Short Form (MHC-SF), and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS).ResultsThough our data showed an acceptable fit to the 16-factor model, the Self-control subscale and item 28 of the Compassion subscale were excluded because of reliability issues. The final model with 15 factors and 44 items showed excellent fit, χ2(797) = 1130.149, p < .001, RMSEA = 0.028, 90% CI [0.024, 0.032], SRMS = 0.049, CFI = 0.993, TLI = 0.991. Principal component analysis revealed three instead of four second-order factors. In the network model, Self-confidence and Wisdom emerged as the most influential nodes. ADHD symptoms were negatively connected to Responsibility, Self-care, Identity, Emotional balance, Self-confidence, and mental health, while they had positive edges with Humor, Self-reflection, and Imagination/creativity. Mental health was positively related to several strengths, with the strongest association being between mental health and Gratitude.ConclusionThe BSS has acceptable factorial validity and is a reliable tool for assessing the personal strengths of the healthy adult self. ADHD symptoms in adults may be associated with deficits in personal strengths, but protective factors could also be identified. Addressing personal strengths in psychosocial interventions for ADHD in adults may improve patients’ emotional well-being and everyday functioning.