September 2019 PMID 30374709

The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD.

Jane Ann Sedgwick, Andrew Merwood, Philip Asherson

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Mentions

92
Peak: 16 in Oct 2020
across 4 sources since Oct 2019

Extended reach

385,391
potential audience

Total likes

199

Video views

972

Mentions per month

Oct 2019 – Mar 2025

Where it's discussed

  • X / Twitter68 posts
  • News17 articles
  • Blogs4 articles
  • YouTube3 videos

AI synopsis

What people are saying

Discussions about the article highlighted various strengths associated with ADHD, such as creativity, high energy, and resilience. For instance, the posts mention that 'creativity in children with ADHD' and 'high energy' can be seen as strengths rather than deficits, using a tone that promotes a more positive understanding of ADHD. Phrases like 'changing perceptions' and 'must consider' convey a sense of urgency towards embracing a more nuanced view of the condition.

AgreementModerate agreement

Many discussions acknowledge the existence of positive aspects of ADHD, with a few expressing skepticism, which results in a mild agreement.

InterestHigh interest

There is a high level of curiosity about the study, with multiple users sharing links and references to additional literature on the positive aspects of ADHD.

EngagementModerate engagement

Posts vary in depth, with some clearly engaging with the research content while others simply reference it, indicating a moderate level of engagement.

ImpactHigh impact

A substantial number of users believe that understanding ADHD positively can significantly affect societal views, marking a strong perceived impact.

Abstract in brief

  • ADHD behaviors exist on a spectrum, suggesting that some traits may be adaptive rather than merely impairing, with many adults finding strengths that help mitigate their challenges.
  • The study used phenomenological interviews to identify six core positive themes related to ADHD—cognitive dynamism, courage, energy, humanity, resilience, and transcendence—along with 19 sub-themes.
  • Notably, some identified traits were not listed in traditional positive psychology frameworks, proposing that these traits should be recognized as unique strengths associated with ADHD, contributing to high functioning and improved quality of life.

Top posts

Most liked on X and Bluesky
Goodas, MD MBA
@GooodasssMD · X

“جنبه های مثبت اختلال ADHD: بررسی کیفی بزرگسالان موفق مبتلا به ADHD” مقاله جالب اسپرینگر درباره اینکه واقعا چرا افراد با ADHD خفیف یا افرادی که عملکرد و زندگی‌شان مختل نشده نیاز به درمان ندارند و می‌توانند موفق باشند: https://t.co/LoTOv04Ejh

Aug 24, 2023 · 56 likes · 1 share · 14,069 followers View post →
The Neurodiversity Charity ADHD Foundation
@ADHDFoundation · X

Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos_MP @profamandakirby @adrianchiles @ADHDconsultancy @adhdireland @scottishadhdco https://t.co/KZ8zOd8zy4 https://t.co/Gfv50jXoZP

Oct 1, 2020 · 30 likes · 15 shares · 45,261 followers View post →
A Psychiatrist
@APsychiatrist2 · X

A small sample, but a really nice qualitative study on the positive aspects of ADHD in successful adults with ADHD. https://t.co/MyfyIGsWe2

Aug 23, 2023 · 14 likes · 2 shares · 3,415 followers View post →
The Neurodiversity Charity ADHD Foundation
@ADHDFoundation · X

Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @JackieDP @JamesSunderl @DrLisaCameronMP @NancyDoylePsych @rgsheadmaster @k8_lister @SimonWestonCBE @Ofstednews @educationgovuk https://t.co/KZ8zOd8zy4

Feb 6, 2021 · 12 likes · 8 shares · 45,261 followers View post →
ADHD Learnings
@AdhdLearnings · X

@JennyArdley @ADHDdesigner https://t.co/ekIJPv8xuq

Feb 16, 2023 · 8 likes · 1 share · 35 followers View post →
Minhaj Suhaimi
@RadiantJunction · X

Article about the positive aspects of ADHD: https://t.co/k51dGBLQoU https://t.co/HpTFkCVXcX

Dec 5, 2021 · 7 likes · 1,173 followers View post →

All mentions

Назим Гафаров
@zapolnoch · X

@abelousovcom @true_psyholog Гиперфокус хоть и не является официальным диагностическим признаком СДВГ, но часто ассоциируется с этим расстройством и может влиять на повседневную жизнь человека. - https://t.co/Srg0RohlQy - https://t.co/U6QUnsAVLT - https://t.co/n4lsHYkYJk

Mar 2, 2025 · 1 like · 11,502 followers View post →
Dr Evgeny Legedin
@DrEvgenyLegedin · X

https://t.co/M8LhOllnkk

Feb 12, 2025 · 5,248 followers View post →
Cardiff University Rare Genetic Research Group
@CURareGens · X

Creativity in children with ADHD : https://t.co/x2Vb6Bu9R2 Problem solving in ADHD: https://t.co/1tzDnXNegG Useful links: https://t.co/CCv4HUAnki https://t.co/7RqzkBK6vD

Nov 4, 2024 · 396 followers View post →
Burak Önal
@burakonalfarma · X

İkincisi; Sedgwick, J. A., Merwood, A., & Asherson, P. (2019). “The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD.” ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders

Oct 24, 2024 · 1 like · 1 share · 1,363 followers View post →
A Psychiatrist
@APsychiatrist2 · X

https://t.co/MyfyIGsWe2

Apr 19, 2024 · 2 likes · 2 shares · 3,415 followers View post →
Lisa August
@augustla · X

@srwtx3 @drjenwolkin @flowerofmemory It is unfortunate that you haven't seen literature that addresses ADHD positives. It is out there. I don't believe it is a "superpower" but there are strengths. Here are some quickly found articles, not heavily vetted: https://t.co/UyfBkRNO8o

Jan 28, 2024 · 1 like · 95 followers View post →
zaza
@dearadhd11 · X

RT @GooodasssMD: “جنبه های مثبت اختلال ADHD: بررسی کیفی بزرگسالان موفق مبتلا به ADHD” مقاله جالب اسپرینگر درباره اینکه واقعا چرا افراد با A…

Aug 24, 2023 · 1 share · 760 followers View post →
BC gal
@Bcgal19 · X

RT @APsychiatrist2: A small sample, but a really nice qualitative study on the positive aspects of ADHD in successful adults with ADHD. ht…

Aug 24, 2023 · 2 shares · 1,623 followers View post →
Goodas, MD MBA
@GooodasssMD · X

“جنبه های مثبت اختلال ADHD: بررسی کیفی بزرگسالان موفق مبتلا به ADHD” مقاله جالب اسپرینگر درباره اینکه واقعا چرا افراد با ADHD خفیف یا افرادی که عملکرد و زندگی‌شان مختل نشده نیاز به درمان ندارند و می‌توانند موفق باشند: https://t.co/LoTOv04Ejh

Aug 24, 2023 · 56 likes · 1 share · 14,069 followers View post →
A Psychiatrist
@APsychiatrist2 · X

A small sample, but a really nice qualitative study on the positive aspects of ADHD in successful adults with ADHD. https://t.co/MyfyIGsWe2

Aug 23, 2023 · 14 likes · 2 shares · 3,415 followers View post →
Miss Joan Carton
@Joan7777777jc17 · X

RT @UnlockingBirth: “How we might reconsider the behaviours associated with #ADHD so that they are seen as valuable and worthy of conservat…

Jun 21, 2023 · 1 share · 60 followers View post →
Selina Wallis
@UnlockingBirth · X

“How we might reconsider the behaviours associated with #ADHD so that they are seen as valuable and worthy of conservation?” https://t.co/cwWKzz8ByZ

Jun 20, 2023 · 3 likes · 1 share · 3,217 followers View post →
bmi32
@bmi32 · X

https://t.co/M5Vz5WP0Bu "The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD" "... All the participants reported an abundance of physical energy as a positive aspect of their ADHD. ..."

Mar 3, 2023 · 116 followers View post →
Tash Hudson-Stryder
@87FoldyFlaps · X

RT @AdhdLearnings: @JennyArdley @ADHDdesigner https://t.co/ekIJPv8xuq

Feb 17, 2023 · 1 share · 99 followers View post →
ADHD Learnings
@AdhdLearnings · X

@JennyArdley @ADHDdesigner https://t.co/ekIJPv8xuq

Feb 16, 2023 · 8 likes · 1 share · 35 followers View post →
carynmiller
@carynmiller2 · X

The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD | SpringerLink https://t.co/H1JNy8adR5

Oct 30, 2022 · 2,225 followers View post →
DivergentPerspectives
@DivergentPrsptv · X

@elibosnick Here's some links you might find helpful: https://t.co/7sRsVqUnxV & https://t.co/KVm6uyNkNy & you can learn more by following @ADDitudeMag to learn current research

Oct 19, 2022 · 376 followers View post →
ADHD/ASD Founder
@ADHDASDFounder · X

RT @dbrodey: The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD |…

Aug 20, 2022 · 1 share · 657 followers View post →
dbrodey
@dbrodey · X

The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD | SpringerLink https://t.co/fcqzZqnR0o

Aug 18, 2022 · 3 likes · 1 share · 2,938 followers View post →
فرط الحركة وتشتت الانتباه (أفتا/ADHD) ‼️
@AdhdArabic · X

رابط الدراسة https://t.co/FfVXK5WIe6

Aug 18, 2022 · 4,461 followers View post →
Jordan Whitt
@jwwhitt · X

@Mitmensch_in Here's the link (I just binge-read the whole article, because of course). https://t.co/fcmHw0Isjf

Aug 17, 2022 · 3 likes · 908 followers View post →
dbrodey
@dbrodey · X

Being neurodivergent is not all bad news and poor outcomes, @StephenFaraone. This is one study I would point to re: #adhd positives https://t.co/fcqzZqnR0o https://t.co/vW93DGZEX8

May 18, 2022 · 2,938 followers View post →
Minhaj Suhaimi
@RadiantJunction · X

Article about the positive aspects of ADHD: https://t.co/k51dGBLQoU https://t.co/HpTFkCVXcX

Dec 5, 2021 · 7 likes · 1,173 followers View post →
Ms Hartley
@HartleyMs · X

@heartandmind15 @LouMycroft Not directly related- but this is a great paper: Sedgwick, J. A., Merwood, A., & Asherson, P. (2019). The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD. ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders.

Oct 22, 2021 · 1 like · 765 followers View post →
Sarah Davidson
@DrSarahED · X

Wee bit of evidence for the benefits of neurodiversity in the workplace https://t.co/vSQdqrljBe

Aug 5, 2021 · 419 followers View post →
jesse meadows
@slug_town · X

@robindarlingg I like the ADHD chapter in The Power of Neurodiversity by Thomas Armstrong (but i hate the autism chapter so just don't read that lol) and i like this paper (you might have to use sci hub to read it) https://t.co/IIQJUMD2Gv

Jun 15, 2021 · 1 like · 1,633 followers View post →
Caleidoscopio
@ClinicaCaleidos · X

The positive aspects of attention defcit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD https://t.co/y7udw8PqGN

Mar 23, 2021 · 150 followers View post →
NeurodesarrolloyConducta
@NConducta · X

The positive aspects of attention defcit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD https://t.co/Pk0ujpr7A5

Mar 23, 2021 · 23 followers View post →
Hablemos del TDAH
@HablemosDelTDAH · X

The positive aspects of attention defcit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD https://t.co/FRxBCyUznJ

Mar 23, 2021 · 1 share · 2,297 followers View post →
Dr. Mauricio Leija
@MauricioLeija · X

The positive aspects of attention defcit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD https://t.co/Lmyg1r0DxG

Mar 23, 2021 · 2 likes · 2,752 followers View post →
ADHD Ireland
@adhdireland · X

This study explores "that some aspects of ADHD can be adaptive rather than impairing, or some adults may possess certain strengths or attributes that mediate and/or compensate for their ADHD-related deficits or impairments" ... https://t.co/eYLQZZEp7D

Feb 10, 2021 · 3 likes · 3,578 followers View post →
Euro Youth Mental Health
@EuroYouthMH · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlat…

Feb 10, 2021 · 8 shares · 1,652 followers View post →
Global Alliance of Mental Illness Advocacy Network
@GAMIAN_Europe · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlat…

Feb 10, 2021 · 8 shares · 4,257 followers View post →
Tony Lloyd
@tonylloyd50 · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlat…

Feb 10, 2021 · 8 shares · 3,344 followers View post →
Jax
@jordyjax · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlat…

Feb 8, 2021 · 8 shares · 8,913 followers View post →
The Neurodiversity Charity ADHD Foundation
@ADHDFoundation · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlat…

Feb 8, 2021 · 8 shares · 45,261 followers View post →
Cait
@cait__1312 · X

@wokebloodelf @ArcherRedd @BadMedicalTakes That's from 22 years ago, try again. There are plenty of positive aspects of ADHD - creativity, curiosity, protection (when you're easily distracted you notice potential danger quickly!), high energy, hyperfocus. https://t.co/uLsavjRUz8

Feb 7, 2021 · 5 followers View post →
Colin Foley
@cfoley50 · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlat…

Feb 7, 2021 · 8 shares · 787 followers View post →
Anabel_Fdez
@AnabelFdez2 · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlat…

Feb 6, 2021 · 8 shares · 29 followers View post →
Mrs Bell
@SazjeBell · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlat…

Feb 6, 2021 · 8 shares · 68 followers View post →
The Neurodiversity Charity ADHD Foundation
@ADHDFoundation · X

Changing perceptions & attitudes to ADHD. @ukaan_org @ScotFFF @NHSEngland @RCSLTWales @rorybremner @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @JackieDP @JamesSunderl @DrLisaCameronMP @NancyDoylePsych @rgsheadmaster @k8_lister @SimonWestonCBE @Ofstednews @educationgovuk https://t.co/KZ8zOd8zy4

Feb 6, 2021 · 12 likes · 8 shares · 45,261 followers View post →
ADHD Ireland
@adhdireland · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 13, 2020 · 15 shares · 3,578 followers View post →
Nicole Biscotti, M.Ed.
@BiscottiNicole · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 7, 2020 · 15 shares · 24,775 followers View post →
Marilyn Muller
@1in5advocacy · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 7, 2020 · 15 shares · 12,809 followers View post →
LIPAwellbeing
@LIPAwellbeing · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 7, 2020 · 15 shares · 183 followers View post →
The Neurodiversity Charity ADHD Foundation
@ADHDFoundation · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 7, 2020 · 15 shares · 45,261 followers View post →
Psychologiecliniqueetsanté
@Psychologiecli1 · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 358 followers View post →
ADHD Wise UK
@ADHDwiseUK · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 4,373 followers View post →
ADDvantage Hypnotherapy
@AddvantageH · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 221 followers View post →
Neuros.eth
@Neurosapp · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 779 followers View post →
Tony Lloyd
@tonylloyd50 · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 3,344 followers View post →
UoE Centre for Psychological Therapies
@for_therapies · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 434 followers View post →
Daniel Johnson MSP
@djohnsonmsp · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 8,140 followers View post →
DrRuthGibson
@ruthgibson35 · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 744 followers View post →
Jo Platt
@JoPlattLeigh · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 12,083 followers View post →
Colin Foley
@cfoley50 · X

RT @ADHDFoundation: Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos…

Oct 1, 2020 · 15 shares · 787 followers View post →
The Neurodiversity Charity ADHD Foundation
@ADHDFoundation · X

Interesting research on some of the positive aspects of ADHD for Adults @ADHDwiseUK @DJohnsonMSP @JoPlattLeigh @Bambos_MP @profamandakirby @adrianchiles @ADHDconsultancy @adhdireland @scottishadhdco https://t.co/KZ8zOd8zy4 https://t.co/Gfv50jXoZP

Oct 1, 2020 · 30 likes · 15 shares · 45,261 followers View post →
Brampton's recorder
@BramRecorder · X

RT @RobinMazumder: I really appreciated this study on the positive aspects of adult ADHD (open access). https://t.co/iAEGraJRtA

May 5, 2020 · 2 shares · 941 followers View post →
margaret chown
@MargaretChown · X

RT @RobinMazumder: I really appreciated this study on the positive aspects of adult ADHD (open access). https://t.co/iAEGraJRtA

May 5, 2020 · 2 shares · 1,692 followers View post →
Dr. Robin Mazumder
@RobinMazumder · X

I really appreciated this study on the positive aspects of adult ADHD (open access). https://t.co/iAEGraJRtA

May 5, 2020 · 2 likes · 2 shares · 13,780 followers View post →
S
@S_the_brand · X

RT @ChatterPackUK: Jane is one AMAZING human! Such a worthy winner, she also has ADHD & she working hard to #FlipTheNarrative

Mar 20, 2020 · 1 share · 205 followers View post →
ChatterPack
@ChatterPackUK · X

Jane is one AMAZING human! Such a worthy winner, she also has ADHD & she working hard to #FlipTheNarrative

Mar 20, 2020 · 1 like · 1 share · 6,611 followers View post →
Genius Within
@geniuswithinCIC · X

#NeurodiverseResearchOfTheYear . #Awesome nomination for Jane Sedgwick of Kings College for her research in challenging the stigma around adult ADHD & the positive aspects around the condition. You can read it here: https://t.co/zTa6J7SBxU #CelebratingNeurodiversityAwards2020. https://t.co/3bY0FT7tzT

Mar 19, 2020 · 3 likes · 7,775 followers View post →
palliativewise
@palliativewise · X

The positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a qualitative investigation of successful adults with ADHD. https://t.co/gl5FRAzJhQ

Feb 11, 2020 · 380 followers View post →
Yei
@yeimmiortiz · X

RT @MauricioLeija: Aspectos positivos del TDAH. Articulo muy interesante publicado este año. https://t.co/jcUmHuuykj

Oct 19, 2019 · 2 shares · 240 followers View post →
Elisa Farías
@elifarmen · X

RT @MauricioLeija: Aspectos positivos del TDAH. Articulo muy interesante publicado este año. https://t.co/jcUmHuuykj

Oct 19, 2019 · 2 shares · 1,649 followers View post →
Hablemos del TDAH
@HablemosDelTDAH · X

Aspectos positivos del TDAH. https://t.co/K58EqUb0Yy https://t.co/C2OEY6lfwT

Oct 18, 2019 · 1 like · 2,297 followers View post →
Dr. Mauricio Leija
@MauricioLeija · X

Aspectos positivos del TDAH. Articulo muy interesante publicado este año. https://t.co/jcUmHuuykj

Oct 18, 2019 · 3 likes · 2 shares · 2,752 followers View post →