Emotion dysregulation and ADHD subclinical manifestations in late adolescents: A study with a focus on inattention

Recent influential approaches to this topic consider executive functions as a bridge between emotional dysregulation and hyperactivity/attention related disorders. Specifically, the ability to self-regulate emotions is viewed as a part of executive functions, which have a particular impact on attentional control. This study explored the relationships between self-reported attention disorders and emotional dysregulation in a sample of 132 non-clinical high school students (age: M = 18.6; SD = .71; 66% males). The research battery comprised four self-report measures which were individually administered to the participants: Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales (Brown ADD Scales), Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Adult Version (BRIEF-A), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), Toronto Alexithymia Scale – 20 items (TAS). A series of regression analyses confirmed the stringent relation between the abilities to identify, regulate, and express emotions and the core variables involved in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), especially in relation to impairments in attentive functioning. Results throw light on the importance of emotion dysregulation in attention and executive control, suggesting the relevance of assessing the individual’s abilities to manage affects to better conceptualize the disorder and plan interventions. Implications for research and practice are discussed especially in the context of psychological development and protraction of the condition during adulthood.