Recognizing strengths in individuals with ADHD: Exploring experiences and applications in clinical practice
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background. Growing recognition of strengths associated with ADHD has stimulated interest in strength-based approaches. Highlighting these strengths may promote well-being and self-acceptance and help counter stigma. Although incorporating strengths into ADHD care may enhance positive outcomes, little is known about how ADHD-related strengths are currently recognized, valued, and applied in clinical practice. This study examined whether and how strengths are discussed in Dutch ADHD care, the perceived importance of attention to strengths, factors needed to support flourishing, associations with stigma, and characteristics of adults associated with reporting strengths related to ADHD.Method. In co-creation with a Dutch ADHD advocacy organization, we conducted a mixed-method study and developed a survey containing open- and closed-ended questions on strengths associated with ADHD, attention to strengths in clinical care, support needs, and stigma. All members with ADHD were invited to participate. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and tests of associations between experiencing strengths, stigma, and participant characteristics, while qualitative response were analyses thematically. Results. Among 224 respondents, 87.1% reported experiencing strengths associated with their ADHD. Participants who reported such strengths had received their diagnosis at a younger age than those who did not. Strengths were discussed more often during treatment (50.4%) than during diagnostic assessment (36.2%), mainly in the context of identifying and utilizing personal strengths. Experiencing strengths was associated with having discussed them in treatment, although the effect size was small. Most participants (78.6%) considered attention to strengths essential. A supportive and understanding environment was most frequently identified as necessary for strengths to flourish (73.2%). No association was found between experiencing strengths and reported stigma.Conclusion. Most respondents experienced strengths associated with ADHD and considered attention to these strengths important. However, strengths are not systematically addressed in clinical care. Participants emphasize that understanding and acceptance of ADHD are key conditions for enabling strengths to flourish.
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7204925124