Canu, W. H. & Carlson, C. L. (2003). Differences in heterosocial behavior and outcomes of ADHD-symptomatic subtypes in a
college sample. Journal of Attention Disorders, 6(3): 123-133 (April 2003). Published by SAGE (ISSN: 1557-1246).
doi:10.1177/108705470300600304
Differences in heterosocial behavior and outcomes of ADHDsymptomatic subtypes in a college sample
Will H. Canu and Caryn L. Carlson
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to explore heterosocial relational outcomes in a college-aged sample
showing symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Using questionnaires and a
behavioral observation task, dating, sexual, and social outcomes were examined in three groups: 24
non-ADHD controls, 27 ADHD-Combined (ADHD/C) Type, and 13 ADHD-Primarily Inattentive (ADHD/IA)
Type.
The ADHD/IA group showed a consistent pattern of passivity and inexperience and was perceived
relatively negatively by female confederates, whereas the ADHD/C group reported increased sexual
drive and early dating experience. The effects of externalizing comorbidity differed by DSM-IV ADHD
subtype.
These findings indicate that ADHD-symptomatic adults differ by DSM-IV subtype in the manifestation of
heterosocial deficits. Results suggest specific and divergent types of psychosocial intervention with
ADHD/C versus ADHD/IA clients.