Interactive Effects of Racism and Racial Centrality on ADHD Symptoms

Abstract

Objective: Although race-related stress is associated with numerous mental health outcomes, no previous research has examined associations with ADHD symptoms. We examine how such associations differ in Black Americans based on racial identity to allow for more nuanced understandings of racial discrimination’s association with ADHD symptoms. Methods: This study asked a sample of Black Americans to answer questionnaires assessing race-related stress, ADHD symptoms, and racial centrality. Results: In predicting ADHD symptoms, we found a positive effect of race-related stress and a negative effect of centrality. At low levels of centrality, the association between ADHD symptoms and race-related stress was stronger than at mean and high levels of centrality. Through additional sub-group analyses we found the interaction effect not replicating in one of our conditions. Conclusion: These results suggest experiences of race-related stress and racial identity are important factors for consideration in the treatment of ADHD symptoms.