An Examination of the Role of Sluggish Cognitive Tempo as a Moderator of the Relationship Between ADHD and Nicotine Use

Abstract

Objective: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by executive dysfunction and functional impairments including nicotine consumption. Sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT) has been associated with ADHD and posited as an independent construct. The present study hypothesized that SCT would moderate the relationships between ADHD and nicotine-related behaviors. Method: Participants ( n = 309) were recruited using Mechanical Turk and completed measures of ADHD symptoms, SCT, and smoking history. Results: ADHD was associated with age of initiation of smoking and more severe withdrawal symptoms for both combustible and electronic cigarettes. SCT significantly moderated the relationship between ADHD and withdrawal symptom severity (both electronic and combustible cigarettes). Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that SCT plays an important role in the complex relationship between ADHD and smoking withdrawal. Future research should further explore the construct of SCT to better understand its role in psychopathology and intervention strategies.