Let’s Talk about Sex… and ADHD: Findings from an Anonymous Online Survey

Susan Young (), Larry J. Klassen, Shayne D. Reitmeier, Jake D. Matheson and Gisli H. Gudjonsson
Additional contact information
Susan Young: Psychology Services Ltd., London CR9 7AE, UK
Larry J. Klassen: Eden Mental Health Centre, 1500 Pembina Avenue, Winkler, MB R6W 1T4, Canada
Shayne D. Reitmeier: Department of Family Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R33 0W2, Canada
Jake D. Matheson: ReitMD, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N0S8, Canada
Gisli H. Gudjonsson: Department of Psychology, University of Reykjavik, 110 Reykjavik, Iceland

IJERPH, 2023, vol. 20, issue 3, 1-17

Abstract: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. A dearth of studies have investigated psychosexuality in this population, often with few (predominantly male) participants. We recruited individuals with and without ADHD via an anonymous online survey distributed electronically by ADHD support organizations and social media. We investigated sexual history; interests and practices; and relationships. Of 1392 respondents, we classified an ‘ADHD’ group ( n = 541; 30.5% male) and compared them to individuals of similar ages without ADHD, (‘Other’ group; n = 851; 37.6% male). The ADHD group (both males and females) had a significantly higher preference for same-sex or either-sex partners; and higher rates of electronic sexual exchanges, masturbation, and sexually transmitted diseases. They were more adventurous in sexual interests and practices and substantially less satisfied with their partners, both sexually and generally. Within the ADHD group, significant sex differences emerged: females had younger onset of sexual activities, used contraception less frequently, had more sexual partners and practiced more infidelity. Sexual interests differed between the sexes, but females more commonly acted on them, whereas males did not. Findings suggest both sexes engage in risky sexual behaviors, perhaps driven by impulsivity, but risk is substantially greater for females with ADHD.

Keywords: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); sex; psychosexual; risk (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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