ADHD traits, stigma, and well-being: A community study among Hungarian adolescents and young adults
K. Vajsz, M. Miklosi, L. R. Paulina, D. Pető, B. Juhász, X. GondaIntroduction
Beyond cognitive and behavioral difficulties, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often accompanied by stigma, including negative public attitudes, self-stigmatization, and poor mental health literacy. Such factors may compromise well-being during adolescence and young adulthood, a critical period for identity formation.
Objectives
This study investigated the associations between ADHD-related traits, stigma, and well-being in Hungarian adolescents and young adults, focusing on how inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity traits relate to emotional, social, and psychological well-being, and whether stigma components act as mediators.
Methods
A cross-sectional community sample (N = 1295, age 14-25) completed validated measures: SWAN (Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD Symptoms and Normal Behavior Scale), MHC-SF (Mental Health Continuum - Short Form), ASQ (ADHD Stigma Questionnaire), RIBS (Reported and Intended Behaviour Scale), and MAKS (Mental Health Knowledge Schedule). Correlations, linear regressions, and mediation analyses were performed.
Results
Inattention traits were negatively associated with all well-being domains (r = 0.27-0.41, p < 0.001), while hyperactivity/impulsivity showed weaker but significant associations (r = 0.18-0.23, p < 0.001). In multiple regression models, inattention (β = -0.32, p < 0.001) and mental health knowledge (β = 0.12, p < 0.001) emerged as significant predictors of psychological well-being, with internalized stigma (ASQ negative self-image; β = -0.13, p < 0.001) exerting an additional negative effect. Emotional and social well-being were significantly predicted by inattention (β = -0.09 to -0.27, p < 0.01) and mental health knowledge (β = 0.09-0.27, p < 0.01). The final model predicting psychological well-being explained 17.5% of the variance (Adj. R² = 0.175, F(3,694) = 50.124, p < 0.001). Mediation analyses revealed limited but significant indirect effects of inattention on emotional well-being through stigma and knowledge.
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