Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science (JCBS)
Volume 28, April 2023, Pages 180-184
Authors
Elizabeth A. Bodalski, Tamara M. Abu-Ramadan, Caroline E. Hough, Elizabeth K. Lefler, Michael C. Meinzer, Kevin M. Antshel
Abstract
The literature suggests that ADHD symptoms are associated with experiential avoidance (EA), but little is known about factors that explain this relation. The present study examined indirect effects of ADHD symptoms on EA via perfectionism in a sample of 3720 undergraduates who completed an online survey. Results showed that perfectionism partially explained the relation between ADHD symptoms and EA, yet the direction of findings differed when examining different elements of perfectionism. Specifically, ADHD symptoms predicted higher Discrepancy scores, but lower Standards and Order scores. This suggests that undergraduates with elevated ADHD symptoms do not strive towards orderliness or hold themselves to overly high standards, yet judge themselves harshly for falling short of their expectations. Targeting this harsh judgment through the use of cognitive-behavioral, or acceptance and commitment therapy may be beneficial for undergraduates with elevated symptoms of ADHD.