Early Attachment and ADHD in Adult Women
Early Attachment and ADHD in Adult Women
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Issue Date
2003
Authors
Breakstone, Alice Jane Miller
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Abstract
Early attachment research has shown that the relationship between a child and his / her adult parent(s) or primary caregiver(s) can have a significant effect on the psychological well-being of the child later on in life. This study explored the association between early attachment behavior and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD ) diagnosed in adult women. Early attachment was assessed by the Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI), which measured the nature of early, affectionate ties between parents and children as recalled by the study participants. ADHD was assessed by self-report using the Attention Deficit Scales for Adults (ADSA). Fifty-one participants previously diagnosed with ADHD as adults completed the study questionnaire. The results indicated relationships between some aspects of ADHD and parenting styles consisting of low care and high overprotection. These study results support other research findings that even though ADHD has a strong genetic component, child-rearing practices may play an important role in families with ADHD. This study is important in that it is the first of its kind to explore the relationship between early attachment and ADHD in adult women, who are underrecognized and underdiagnosed with ADHD. There are substantial implications for clinical psychology of the present findings. Since ADHD is usually co-morbid with other psychological disorders, those seeking therapy for reasons other than their ADHD situation might possibly explore their perception of early attachment they had with their primary caregiver . Also , potential parents might want to consider seeking parenting skills counseling.