Networks of ADHD and SCT Symptoms in Emerging Adulthood

Abstract

Objective: Emerging adulthood (18–25 years) is a transitional and understudied developmental period. Yet, little is known about how specific symptoms of ADHD, as well as those from the related SCT domain, may differentially relate to one another during this period, if there are differences based on biological sex, or how closely results will align with adulthood. Methods: We used network analysis techniques to explore the structure of ADHD and SCT symptoms within emerging adulthood, with additional comparisons between sexes as well as between emerging adulthood and adulthood. Using an online platform, 8,506 adults reported on their symptoms of ADHD and SCT. Results: Symptoms grouped together within their respective domains during emerging adulthood with no significant differences in overall network structure between sexes. Similarly, network structure appeared to be robust across emerging adulthood and adulthood. Conclusion: Such consistency supports a conceptualization of ADHD in emerging adulthood as similar to adulthood.