The relationship of self-compassion and ADHD symptomatology to the wellbeing and academic achievement of college students

As a result of the core symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as well as difficulties with emotional regulation, individuals with ADHD are at heightened risk for depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, and academic difficulties. One factor that may impact the effects of ADHD on mental health is self-compassion. By giving oneself understanding and concern in the face of setbacks and shortcomings, self-compassion represents the antithesis of the self-criticism and shame at the heart of the mood disorders that commonly accompany ADHD. This study sought to determine whether self-compassion plays a role in the relationship between ADHD symptoms and self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and GPA. Specifically, we hypothesized that participants who were higher in self-compassion would demonstrate higher self-esteem and GPA and lower symptoms of anxiety and depression. Both moderation and mediation were examined. Findings were that participants with heightened levels of ADHD symptomatology reported experiencing less self-compassion than those with fewer symptoms of the disorder. Moreover, self-compassion partially mediated the link between ADHD and wellbeing. In particular, self-compassion mediated the link between ADHD symptoms and self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. No moderating effect of self-compassion was found. Moreover, no link was found between ADHD, self-compassion, and GPA. These findings point to the potential of targeting self-compassion in treatment of ADHD to reduce comorbid emotional difficulties associated with the condition

Author dc:creator

• Williamson, Zachary

Contributors dc:contributor

• Neff, Kristin
• Steinhardt, Mary
• Falbo, Toni
• Schallert, Diane

• Self-compassion
• ADHD
• ADHD symptoms
• Self-esteem
• Anxiety
• Depression
• GPA

Language dc:language

en

Identifier

http://dx.doi.org/10.26153/tsw/8448

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:tdl-ir.tdl.org:2152/81440