Eastern Kentucky University
Types of Technology and the Impact on ADHD Symptoms in Young Adulthood
Grade Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Psychology
Minor
Child & Family Studies
Institution 24-25
Eastern Kentucky University
KY House District #
072
KY Senate District #
27
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Olivia Williams, Ph.D.
Department
Department of Psychology
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of digital technology in daily life has raised questions about its impact on mental health, particularly in relation to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study examines the relationship between types of technology use and ADHD symptoms in young adults, focusing on understanding how specific technology habits may influence attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
A cross-sectional design was employed, recruiting 150 participants aged 18–25 through university platforms. Technology use was assessed using the Media and Technology Usage and Attitudes Scale (MTUAS), and ADHD symptoms were measured with the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1). Data were analyzed using regression analyses to explore the predictive relationships between technology use patterns and ADHD symptom severity while controlling for demographic variables such as age and gender.
*Preliminary* results indicate a significant positive correlation between the frequency of technology use, particularly social media and multitasking behaviors, and ADHD symptom severity. Conversely, mobile phone use exhibited a weaker association with ADHD symptoms compared to other technologies. These findings suggest that excessive engagement with certain types of technology may exacerbate ADHD symptoms, particularly inattention and impulsivity.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. Practical applications include developing targeted interventions to reduce excessive technology use, fostering healthier digital habits, and designing digital platforms that promote attention-friendly features. These strategies could benefit individuals with ADHD in clinical, educational, and workplace settings while contributing to broader public health initiatives. By identifying specific types of technology that most significantly impact ADHD symptoms, this study adds valuable insights to the growing digital mental health research field.
Types of Technology and the Impact on ADHD Symptoms in Young Adulthood
The increasing prevalence of digital technology in daily life has raised questions about its impact on mental health, particularly in relation to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study examines the relationship between types of technology use and ADHD symptoms in young adults, focusing on understanding how specific technology habits may influence attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
A cross-sectional design was employed, recruiting 150 participants aged 18–25 through university platforms. Technology use was assessed using the Media and Technology Usage and Attitudes Scale (MTUAS), and ADHD symptoms were measured with the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1). Data were analyzed using regression analyses to explore the predictive relationships between technology use patterns and ADHD symptom severity while controlling for demographic variables such as age and gender.
*Preliminary* results indicate a significant positive correlation between the frequency of technology use, particularly social media and multitasking behaviors, and ADHD symptom severity. Conversely, mobile phone use exhibited a weaker association with ADHD symptoms compared to other technologies. These findings suggest that excessive engagement with certain types of technology may exacerbate ADHD symptoms, particularly inattention and impulsivity.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. Practical applications include developing targeted interventions to reduce excessive technology use, fostering healthier digital habits, and designing digital platforms that promote attention-friendly features. These strategies could benefit individuals with ADHD in clinical, educational, and workplace settings while contributing to broader public health initiatives. By identifying specific types of technology that most significantly impact ADHD symptoms, this study adds valuable insights to the growing digital mental health research field.