The Relationship of Self-Compassion and ADHD Symptomatology to the Wellbeing and Academic Achievement of College Students

• Main Author: Williamson, Zachary
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01.01.2019
• Subjects: Clinical psychology; Higher education; Personality psychology
• ISBN: 9798678196736

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