Canu, W. H. & Carlson, C. L. (2003). Differences in heterosocial behavior and outcomes of ADHD-symptomatic subtypes in a

college sample. Journal of Attention Disorders, 6(3): 123-133 (April 2003). Published by SAGE (ISSN: 1557-1246).

doi:10.1177/108705470300600304

Differences in heterosocial behavior and outcomes of ADHD-

symptomatic subtypes in a college sample

Will H. Canu and Caryn L. Carlson

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to explore heterosocial relational outcomes in a college-aged sample

showing symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Using questionnaires and a

behavioral observation task, dating, sexual, and social outcomes were examined in three groups: 24

non-ADHD controls, 27 ADHD-Combined (ADHD/C) Type, and 13 ADHD-Primarily Inattentive (ADHD/IA)

Type.

The ADHD/IA group showed a consistent pattern of passivity and inexperience and was perceived

relatively negatively by female confederates, whereas the ADHD/C group reported increased sexual

drive and early dating experience. The effects of externalizing comorbidity differed by DSM-IV ADHD

subtype.

These findings indicate that ADHD-symptomatic adults differ by DSM-IV subtype in the manifestation of

heterosocial deficits. Results suggest specific and divergent types of psychosocial intervention with

ADHD/C versus ADHD/IA clients.