Exploring Ontario Adults Experiences with ADHD diagnosed in adulthood: A Qualitative Study

Title: Exploring Ontario Adults Experiences with ADHD diagnosed in adulthood: A Qualitative Study

Description: This study examines the experiences of full-time postsecondary psychology students in Ontario who were diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at or after the age of 18. It explores how these students cope with academic challenges and what role technology plays in supporting their learning. Given that late diagnoses of ADHD often follows stressful life events or co-occurring mental health concerns, understanding how these students adapt is essential. Students with ADHD find it much more difficult to avoid distractions and stay focused on task, take notes, remember essential details, and persist in tasks that are cognitively demanding. Students report shame and guilt about their academic performance, which may lead to procrastination and avoidance behaviours. Technological interventions, ranging from computer-based instructions to interactive serious games, provide opportunities to create personalized and engaging learning experiences that cater to the needs of students with ADHD. The research questions for this study are: (1) What are the experiences of helpful coping with ADHD symptoms in postsecondary education in psychology? (2) What technology is utilized to support academic journey?

Specifics: Study Population:
Full-time postsecondary student, aged 18-30, studying psychology as major/ enrolled in a professional degree in any type of psychology at bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate levels in an Ontario institute; must be diagnosed with ADHD at 18 or after 18.

Participant Obligation:
Must be willing to discuss their experience of living with ADHD and ways they manage their symptom as a student by participating in a semi-structured interview, conducted using Zoom and will be audio recorded. Must be fluent in English

Location: Online; study was approved in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Project lead: Aarti Gupta, Supervisor: Dr. Christine Wekerle

Study Dates: June 19, 2025 to July 19, 2025

Study Website: https://survey.sogolytics.com/r/0p9yCD