Abstract
Although Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was once thought to occur
exclusively in the course of childhood, remitting in adolescence, it is increasingly accepted as
a valid diagnosis in adulthood, with DSM-5 providing diagnostic criteria adapted for adults.
Symptoms of ADHD in adulthood can lead to impairment in the occupational and tertiary
educational environments among others, and additionally can lead to individual differences in
ability to perform certain occupational functions, as well as in the occupations to which an
individual may be attracted.
Adults with ADHD have been shown to differ significantly in personality from non-ADHD
adults. The "goodness of fit' between personality and environment underlies much of the
predominant understanding of occupational choice. In addition to impairment in the work
environment, a lack of fit may exist between adults with ADHD and many features common
to organisations. Despite this, along with acknowledgement of the influence of career choice
on various factors, including success, emotional welfare and personal productivity, there is a
lack of literature dealing specifically with career counselling in ADHD populations.
In order to investigate the differences between adults with and without ADHD in a number of
areas commonly assessed for career counselling and guidance purposes, an ADHD screening
tool, the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) was administered to a sample (n60) of
adults with and without ADHD. Participants were then assigned to ADHD and non-ADHD
groups on the basis of ASRS scores in conjunction with diagnostic history, and assessed by
means of the Self-directed Search Questionnaire (SDS), and the Basic Traits Inventory (BTI).
Tests for between-group differences revealed significant differences on a small number of
variables with the ADHD group scoring significantly higher on only the Enterprising type of
the SDS. On the BTI, the ADHD group scored significantly higher on Extraversion, and
significantly lower on Conscientiousness. The ADHD group also scored significantly higher
on the Actions, Ideas, and Imagination facets of the BTI's Openness to Experience factor....
M.A. (Clinical Psychology)