An international team of researchers from Canada, Iceland, and the United Kingdom explored how attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) relates to romantic relationships and sexual behavior across adults. The study appeared in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, an established scientific outlet concerned with public health and environmental factors.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition defined by ongoing patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can interfere with daily life. Individuals with ADHD may struggle to sustain focus during tasks, make careless mistakes, find organizing activities challenging, and often forget routine details.
In this study, 1,466 middle-aged adults were surveyed anonymously. Participants disclosed any diagnosed mental disorders as well as details about their sexual activities, romantic relationships, sexual interests, and related practices.
Among the respondents, 39 percent reported an ADHD diagnosis. Notably, women with ADHD reported an average of 12 sexual partners, versus eight partners for women without ADHD. The researchers also observed that ADHD was associated with lower overall satisfaction in romantic relationships among women.
Across genders, individuals with ADHD showed engagement in activities such as intimate texting, attending themed events, and pursuing casual relationships with unfamiliar partners. The survey indicated a wider range of sexual interests and practices among those with ADHD.
The authors emphasize the importance of diagnosing ADHD and providing support to reduce potential risks associated with sexual behavior. They note that recognizing ADHD can help individuals access resources and guidance for safer choices and healthier relationship dynamics.
Earlier work in this field has linked ADHD with various dynamics within relationships, including how impulsivity and emotional regulation may influence interactions with partners. The current findings add to the growing literature on how ADHD may intersect with intimate life, underlining the need for comprehensive clinical care and informed counseling.