Effects of adult ADHD on intimate partnerships

Abstract

Although research on adult ADHD has become more prevalent since the condition’s recognition in the 1990s, information remains scarce about if and how it impacts functionality in relationships. Adults with ADHD can experience interpersonal relationship difficulties due to the disorder’s signature symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness, as well as due to adult ADHD’s oft-observed dimension of emotional lability. Adults with ADHD tend to have more trouble navigating romantic relationships and are more likely to be divorced than adults without ADHD. The purpose of this paper is to perform a systematic literature review of empirically based studies of integrative couples therapy wherein at least one partner struggles with adult ADHD. Future research, gaps in the literature, and practice implications also are discussed, including hope for focus on the positive aspects of ADHD for individuals and partnerships.