Poster
132
(#132) Coping Mechanisms in Adults with ADHD: A Narrative Review on Adaptive and Maladaptive Coping Mechanisms
Psych Congress 2025
Abstract: Introduction: Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often struggle with inattentiveness and focus. While the efficacy of pharmacotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is well-documented, many adults rely on coping mechanism; adaptive or maladaptive,to manage symptoms.
Objective: This review aims to identify coping mechanisms used by adults with ADHD, classify them as adaptive or maladaptive, and evaluate their reported efficacy.
Methods: A PubMed search was conducted using keywords related to ADHD, coping mechanisms, and outcomes. The initial 118 articles were screened for duplicates and inclusion criteria (adult population, coping strategies, long-term outcomes). Reviews, non-English texts, book chapters, editorials, case reports, and studies not focusing on adults were excluded. Of the remaining 85, 63 were further excluded for not meeting criteria, leaving 22 studies for final review.
Results: From these 22 articles, 81 coping mechanisms were identified. Of these, 50 were categorized as adaptive, 18 as maladaptive, 6 as context-dependent, and 7 as unclear. The most frequently discussed coping strategies included cognitive avoidance, behavioral avoidance, planning, substance use, self-blame, denial, mood monitoring, escape, need for social support, and problem-solving. Maladaptive strategies (e.g., binge eating, substance use) often provide short-term relief but worsen outcomes over time. In contrast, adaptive mechanisms (e.g., planning with calendars) were linked to improved long-term functioning.
Conclusion: Adults with ADHD frequently use coping mechanisms, many of which are maladaptive and offer only temporary relief. Promoting adaptive strategies may enhance outcomes when used alongside standard ADHD treatments.
Short Description: My poster looks at different coping mechanisms employed by adults with ADHD, studies their adaptabilities, and looks at whether or not certain coping mechanisms may yield therapeutic benefit when used alongside traditional ADHD treatments. Furthermore, we look at what coping mechanisms are listed as adaptive and maladaptive and how they impact long term prognosis for adults with ADHD.
Name of Sponsoring Organization(s): N/A
Objective: This review aims to identify coping mechanisms used by adults with ADHD, classify them as adaptive or maladaptive, and evaluate their reported efficacy.
Methods: A PubMed search was conducted using keywords related to ADHD, coping mechanisms, and outcomes. The initial 118 articles were screened for duplicates and inclusion criteria (adult population, coping strategies, long-term outcomes). Reviews, non-English texts, book chapters, editorials, case reports, and studies not focusing on adults were excluded. Of the remaining 85, 63 were further excluded for not meeting criteria, leaving 22 studies for final review.
Results: From these 22 articles, 81 coping mechanisms were identified. Of these, 50 were categorized as adaptive, 18 as maladaptive, 6 as context-dependent, and 7 as unclear. The most frequently discussed coping strategies included cognitive avoidance, behavioral avoidance, planning, substance use, self-blame, denial, mood monitoring, escape, need for social support, and problem-solving. Maladaptive strategies (e.g., binge eating, substance use) often provide short-term relief but worsen outcomes over time. In contrast, adaptive mechanisms (e.g., planning with calendars) were linked to improved long-term functioning.
Conclusion: Adults with ADHD frequently use coping mechanisms, many of which are maladaptive and offer only temporary relief. Promoting adaptive strategies may enhance outcomes when used alongside standard ADHD treatments.
Short Description: My poster looks at different coping mechanisms employed by adults with ADHD, studies their adaptabilities, and looks at whether or not certain coping mechanisms may yield therapeutic benefit when used alongside traditional ADHD treatments. Furthermore, we look at what coping mechanisms are listed as adaptive and maladaptive and how they impact long term prognosis for adults with ADHD.
Name of Sponsoring Organization(s): N/A
