ADHD and LGBTQ - Is There a Connection?

Main Chapters:

Several studies have found an association between individuals with ADHD and those identifying as LGBTQ. Individuals with ADHD report higher rates of same-sex sexual behavior, and higher rates of having a same-sex orientation than the general population. Those who identify as having a non-heterosexual orientation are more likely to have ADHD than their exclusively heterosexual peers.

The connections between ADHD with transsexuality appear even more robust, with virtually all studies to date finding increased rates of ADHD among the trans population.

Some part of this association appears to be due to “minority stress” - the high levels of stress faced by stigmatized minorities individuals. But genetic and other biologic factors also appear to have a role. Neurodiverse individuals (ADHD, autism spectrum, LGBTQ, left-handed) are more likely than the general population to have more than one of these identities, and are also more likely to have auto-immune conditions.

Why does the ADHD-LGBTQ connection matter? For one, it may introduce confounding variables into neuroanatomical studies of those with ADHD, if they do not control for sexual orientation (which itself is associated with structural brain differences).

Stigma also reduces the likelihood of individuals seeking appropriate medical care for any of the conditions that they are dealing with. Having ADHD may create particular challenges for trans individuals trying to navigate convoluted government bureaucracies when trying to access services.

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Free link to my Medium Article on the ADHD and LGBTQ Connection:

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References:

The transgender and gender diverse and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder nexus: A systematic review (2024)

Cortical brain structure and sexual orientation in adult females with bipolar disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (2018)

Sexuality in Adults With ADHD: Results of an Online Survey (2022, Germany)

Psychiatric morbidity associated with same-sex sexual behaviour: influence of minority stress and familial factors (2010)

A Systematic Review of the Relationship Between Neurodiversity and Psychosexual Functioning in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (2023)

Full Chapter list:

Streamed live February 21, 2024

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Psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and author John Kruse, MD, PhD presents practical, actionable, well-researched information about treatment options that scientists and clinicians recommend for adult ADHD and other mental health conditions.

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