Does Childhood ADHD Increase the Chances of Substance Abuse in Late Adolescents and Adulthood?

• In Event: Posters I

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a diagnosis most often given to school aged children. However, there can be lasting effects of ADHD into adolescents and adulthood. The question of childhood ADHD leading to substance abuse in adolescence and adulthood has not been studied in great detail. It is possible that there is something about the symptoms of ADHD that increases the risk of substance abuse in late adolescence and adulthood. Furthermore, it is possible that some may seek to treat their ADHD symptoms with illegal substances. For the purpose of this study data from The National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health will be used to assess the relationship between childhood ADHD and later use of illegal substances. Findings from this study have implications for the clinical treatment of ADHD as well as the response to substance abuse when the root cause is self-medication.

Authors

• Jennifer Hartsfield, Bridgewater State University

• Rhiannon Lynn Andrews, Bridgewater State University