The Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Psychological Distress in Canadian Adults With ADD/ADHD.
OBJECTIVE
The primary purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and psychological distress in individuals self-reporting a diagnosis of attention deficit disorder (ADD)/ADHD.


METHODS
This correlational study encompasses cross-sectional data from 488 male and female adults (20-64 years) who reported that they have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD. Psychological distress was measured with the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10).


RESULTS
Adults with ADD/ADHD and high incomes have significantly lower K10 scores than Canadians with ADD/ADHD and low incomes. Income, but not education, was significant in predicting psychological distress among the sample. Canadian adults with ADD/ADHD have an increased risk for developing psychological distress and comorbid psychiatric disorders.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings suggest that negative outcomes associated with ADD/ADHD are not necessarily pervasive. High income may serve as a protective factor for psychological distress among adults with ADD/ADHD.
1 Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada.
Emily
E
Pond
1 Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada.
Ken
K
Fowler
1 Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada.
Jacqueline
J
Hesson
D000328:Adult; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity; D002170:Canada / Q000453:epidemiology; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D000079225:Psychological Distress; D012923:Social Class; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000453:epidemiology
ADD/ADHD; SES; adult; adult ADHD; psychological well-being