Mixed-neurotype perspectives of ADHD and Emotions.

Abstract

ADHD presents strengths and differences, despite being associated with worsened outcomes across multiple domains. Interpersonal dynamics can be problematic and ADHD people often struggle with their emotions, yet emotional difficulties remain absent in diagnostic criteria. Deficit-focused narratives inform societal perception of ADHD, and ADHD people receive criticism attributed to neuronormative expectations. There is currently little research that describes strengths or captures ADHD voices, with many prior studies perpetuating stigmas and power imbalance. We conducted a mixed neurotype study with fifteen ADHD people and fifteen non-ADHD people to explore their experiences of ADHD emotions with a concurrent strength-narrative. Interpretative phenomenological analysis of ADHD accounts revealed that being harshly judged triggered shame, camouflaging and detriment to wellbeing. Emotions were challenging and difficult to discuss, which suggested an alexithymia spectrum. Thematic analysis of non-ADHD accounts suggested that they were hidden carers, whilst ADHD was a misunderstood, hidden disability, resulting in ableism and absence of support for all. Accounts identified a ‘mixed-neurotype detriment doom loop’ whereby neurotypical expectations, judgements and environmental conditions upheld by non-ADHD people and internalised as stigmas, caused ADHDers such cognitive, psychological and emotional detriment that their outcomes were impaired, and presentation perceived as problematic, triggering harsh judgements from non-ADHD people thus furthering the cycle. Non-ADHD people named ADHD strengths with ease, while ADHD people did not and opposed toxic positivity. Many differences appeared to be attributed to cross-neurotype vs. same-neurotype dyads, and participants felt benefits from being amongst people with shared understanding. ADHD was positioned in a social model of disability and experienced as a dynamic disability, thus solutions could be achieved through socioenvironmental change. Experiences were compounded by aspects of intersectionality, highlighting the importance of including minority communities in disability research. Future studies should be co-produced with methods that are ADHD-compatible.