Social Anxiety and adult ADHD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Social anxiety in adults with ADHD: A result of cognitive bias?
IRAS ID
182182
Contact name
Andrew Merwood
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
SOCIAL ANXIETY IN ADULTS WITH ADHD - A RESULT OF COGNITIVE BIAS?
Why?
According to the cognitive theory, distressing beliefs and behaviours are central to the development and maintenance of social anxiety. However, this theory has yet to be tested among adults with ADHD, despite the high prevalence of social anxiety among this population. Consequently, this study will examine beliefs and behaviours relevant to social anxiety among adults with and without ADHD.
What?
This study will improve understanding of ADHD, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. It will also broaden understanding of social anxiety, a persistent fear of social or performance situations. The findings will be of relevance to clinicians using cognitive-behaviour therapy (CBT).
Who?
This study will compare three groups: adults with ADHD and social anxiety; adults with ADHD without social anxiety; and adults without ADHD or social anxiety. Individuals aged 18 or over will be eligible to take part. Those with an intellectual disability, a pervasive developmental disorder or a history of neurological disorder will not be eligible to participate.
Where?
Participants with ADHD will be recruited from three clinics: the Bristol Adult ADHD Clinic, the Northamptonshire ADHD and Asperger’s Team, and the South London and Maudsley Adult ADHD Clinic. Participants with ADHD will additionally be recruited via online social media. Individuals without ADHD and social anxiety will be recruited via online social media and the University of Bath Undergraduate Psychology Participation Scheme.
How?
The study will last for 12 months. Participants will be asked to complete online questionnaires that assess symptoms of ADHD, impairment, wellbeing, anxiety, and beliefs and behaviours in relation to social situations. Up to eight adults with ADHD and social anxiety will additionally be invited to participate in qualitative interviews to find out more about their experiences of social anxiety.
REC name
East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC 1
REC reference
15/ES/0154
Date of REC Opinion
15 Sep 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion