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

• Published in: International journal of environmental research and public health 2023-01, Vol.20 (3), p.2037
• Main Authors: Young, Susan, Klassen, Larry J, Reitmeier, Shayne D, Matheson, Jake D, Gudjonsson, Gisli H
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adults; Age; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity - epidemiology; Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; Community; Contraception; Disease transmission; Female; Females; Gender differences; Humans; Hyperactivity; Impulsive behavior; Male; Males; Neurodevelopmental disorders; Personal relationships; Privacy; Questionnaires; Sex Characteristics; Sex differences; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Partners; Sexually transmitted diseases; STD; Surveys; Surveys and Questionnaires
• ISSN: 1660-4601; 1661-7827; 1660-4601
• DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032037

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 ( = 541; 30.5% male) and compared them to individuals of similar ages without ADHD, ('Other' group; = 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.