Date of Award
Spring 2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
James Hoelzle
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a highly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that often persists into adulthood. Individuals with ADHD present with varied patterns of neurocognitive impairment, psychological comorbidities, and functional challenges. The current characterization of ADHD into three subgroups (primarily inattentive, primarily hyperactive/impulsive, combined inattentive-hyperactive/impulsive presentation) does not fully explain the heterogeneity of challenges experienced by this population. In this study, 259 adult patients [Mage= 25.94; SD=7.83; 78% Caucasian; 54% male] referred for an ADHD evaluation were investigated, and latent profile analysis was conducted. Self-reported ADHD symptoms, psychological functioning, and neuropsychological functioning were considered to identify subgroups. Results revealed four distinct classes: a class with low neuropsychological performance and elevated mood and behavioral self-report (Neuropsychiatrically Distressed), a class with relative inefficiencies across neuropsychological performance with a particular deficit in sustained attention/vigilance and a high report of inattention symptoms (Relative Cognitive Inefficiencies only), a class with relative inefficiencies across neuropsychological performance with unimpaired sustained attention/vigilance (Relative Cognitive Inefficiencies with Preserved Vigilance), and a class with high neuropsychological performance and low self-reported mood and behavioral symptoms (Neuropsychiatrically Resilient). There were differences in likelihood of ADHD diagnosis, insufficient effort, and years of education across classes. Age and gender did not significantly differ across classes. Identification of distinct subgroups of adult patients referred for an ADHD evaluation provides additional evidence to support the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral heterogeneity observed in adult ADHD, which in turn, may allow clinicians to better tailor relevant treatment recommendations.