Trauma experiences and sexual abuse in ADHD

Abstract

The aim of this study is to qualitatively and quantitatively assess childhood trauma, particularly sexual abuse, in individuals with ADHD. A total of 125 individuals with childhood ADHD and 195 control subjects were retrospectively surveyed using standardized questionnaires regarding traumatic experiences, including sexual abuse. Individuals with childhood ADHD reported, on average, more frequent or severe emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional neglect, and physical neglect. Compared to the control group, individuals with childhood ADHD reported sexual assault, both with and without physical contact, more frequently during childhood. Individuals with childhood ADHD who described experiencing sexual abuse in childhood retrospectively reported more pronounced anxious-depressive symptoms than those with ADHD who had not experienced abuse. Many adult ADHD patients describe trauma. However, due to the retrospective approach of this study, it cannot be definitively concluded that ADHD is a risk factor for trauma, including sexual abuse. More attention should be paid to this issue in the treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD, and preventive measures should be developed.