Predicting Adaptive Behavior by Self-Advocacy and Resilience in Adults with ADHD

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the predictive relationship between self-advocacy, resilience, and adaptive behavior in adults with ADHD. A correlational descriptive research design was used, with a sample of 400 adults with ADHD recruited through online platforms and mental health clinics. Participants completed standardized assessments, including the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System-Third Edition (ABAS-3) for adaptive behavior, the Self-Advocacy Measure for Youth and Adults (SAMYA), and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression in SPSS-27 to evaluate the relationships between self-advocacy, resilience, and adaptive behavior. Descriptive statistics indicated moderate levels of adaptive behavior (M = 85.32, SD = 9.87), self-advocacy (M = 60.41, SD = 11.56), and resilience (M = 69.87, SD = 14.92). Pearson correlation results revealed significant positive associations between adaptive behavior and both self-advocacy (r = 0.58, p < 0.01) and resilience (r = 0.62, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression showed that self-advocacy and resilience collectively accounted for 44% of the variance in adaptive behavior (F(2, 397) = 45.82, p < 0.01, R² = 0.44). However, when examined separately, self-advocacy (B = -0.09, p = 0.024) had a significant negative predictive effect, while resilience (B = -0.022, p = 0.502) was not a significant predictor. The findings suggest that while both self-advocacy and resilience are correlated with adaptive behavior, their individual predictive effects differ, with self-advocacy playing a more prominent role. These results highlight the importance of fostering self-advocacy skills in adults with ADHD to enhance adaptive functioning. Further research is needed to explore moderating factors that may influence these relationships.