Exploring Female Students’ Experiences of ADHD and its Impact on Social, Academic, and Psychological Functioning

OBJECTIVE: The aim of research is to provide greater understanding of ADHD in adult females by exploring first-hand experiences of female university students with ADHD in the UK, and the impact of such experiences on social, academic, and psychological functioning. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight adult women attending university in the UK—all clinically diagnosed with ADHD during adulthood. RESULTS: Participants experiences were rich and insightful, identifying that many women with ADHD experience stigmatization and social discrimination, amongst other social, academic, and psychological difficulties. CONCLUSION: Overall, the research identifies the pressing need for greater understanding and appreciation of ADHD in females, particularly amongst health professionals.