(PS1-C54) Functional Impairment in Emerging Adulthood: The Role of Onset Timing and ADHD Diagnosis

Background: ADHD is linked to poor functional outcomes in adults, including lower educational attainment and employment levels (Gjervan et al., 2012). Impairment in functioning is a frequent reason for referral, and it is a better predictor of long-term outcomes than ADHD symptoms alone (Sasser et al., 2017). However, research on the impact of ADHD treatments on functional impairment has only recently begun (Sasser et al., 2017). Moreover, there is limited research on ADHD in emerging adults, a distinct stage of development between 18 and 29 years, even though the prevalence of ADHD in this phase is somewhat higher, and it is linked to negative outcomes (Abecassis et al., 2017; Fedele et al., 2010). Additionally, the most common comorbid disorders in adults with ADHD are lifetime depression, substance abuse, and alcohol abuse which can significantly impact one’s functioning (Gjervan et al., 2012). Research suggests that among adults, those who have late-identified and late-onset ADHD symptoms, tend to report higher rates of current ADHD symptoms and impairment compared to those who had early onset (Hartung et al., 2022). Understanding the onset and diagnosis of ADHD in relation to functional impairment is important because ADHD can have a significant impact on a person's daily life and functioning. Early diagnosis could give individuals access to care sooner and skills to improve functioning at an early age.

Method: Data collection is ongoing through the participant recruitment platform of a university located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the US and will be completed by May 2023, with an estimated sample of 750 college students. The survey includes scales such as the Barkley Functional Impairment Scale, the Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scale, and a questionnaire on the onset of ADHD symptoms and timing of diagnosis. The data will be analyzed using a multiple regression analysis to determine whether the onset of ADHD symptoms are predictors of functional impairment in emerging adulthood.

Results: This study anticipates that early diagnosis ADHD is expected to lead to improved functional outcomes during emerging adulthood, while late identified and late onset ADHD (Hartung et al., 2022), may result in significant impairment in various life domains. The findings will underscore the importance of early identification and intervention for individuals with ADHD to enhance their potential and improve their overall quality of life.

Conclusion: The onset of ADHD is crucial for managing the demands of adult life effectively in emerging adulthood. As such, knowledge on how the onset of ADHD impacts functional impairment in emerging adulthood, a period when individuals are expected to manage multiple responsibilities, can aid individuals, families, and healthcare professionals to recognize and address the specific challenges and needs of those with ADHD. This can lead to the development of appropriate treatment plans, accommodations, and support strategies tailored to the individual's specific functional impairments.