Attention deficit\hyperactivity disorder in artists: A study of prevalence and comorbidity with anxiety within the context of demographic indicators

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

2 M.A. in Cognitive Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.

10.22098/jrp.2026.20642.1393

Abstract

Attention deficit\hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is accompanied by numerous psychological, behavioral, and social complications throughout one’s lifetime. The present research attempted to examine the prevalence of ADHD in artists and its relationship with anxiety and demographic characteristics. The statistical universe in this descriptive-cross-sectional study consisted of 607 artists, selected via the convenient sampling method. The data were collected using the Conners adult ADHD rating scale-self report form and sub-scales (CAARS-S:S) and the Beck anxiety inventory (BAI). The collected data were analyzed using the independent samples T-test, and one-way variance analysis in SPSS 26 software. Among the 607 participants, 7.7% (47 persons) exhibited ADHD symptoms with severity higher or much higher than average (=T≥ 65). The results indicated a positive and significant relationship between anxiety and ADHD symptoms (p< 0.001 and r= 0.58). From among the assessed demographic characteristics, a comparison of the mean values corresponding to gender showed that female artists had reported a significantly higher frequency of ADHD symptoms compared to male artists (p< 0.05, t= -2.08). In addition, the findings indicated that artists aged 20-29 showed significantly more severe ADHD symptoms compared to other age groups (p< 0.001, F= 15.64). The findings highlight the importance of female artists’ mental health and the codification of early therapeutic interventions with the correct age-group prioritization. The implementation of comprehensive plans for clinical evaluations and assessment of disorder symptoms among artists, and the provision of therapeutic services for individuals with ADHD symptoms, may be necessary.

Keywords

References

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