Üniversite Öğrencilerinde Dikkat Eksikliği ve Hiperaktivite Belirtileri ile Depresyon ve Kaygı Düzeyleri Arasındaki İlişkide Erken Dönem Uyumsuz Şemaların Aracı Rolünün İncelenmesi

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that leads to individuals to experience various functional impairments and failures in multiple life domains, particularly in academic, occupational, and interpersonal relationships, beginning in early life. These difficulties may contribute to the development of negative self-perceptions and increase vulnerability to mood and anxiety disorders. Understanding the processes that influence the relationship between ADHD symptoms and depression and anxiety levels will contribute to the effectiveness of ADHD intervention programs. This study investigated the mediating roles of early maladaptive schemas (EMS) in the relationship between ADHD symptoms and depression and anxiety levels among university students. The sample consisted of 575 students aged 18-25 from various universities and departments. Data were collected using the Demographic Information Form, the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), the Young Schema Scale-Turkish Short Form-3 (YŞÖ-KF3), and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Pearson's Moment Correlation Analysis, Multiple Regression Analyses, and Hayes' Process add-on Model 4 Parallel Multiple Mediator Variable Analyses were conducted to test the research hypotheses. Results of the correlation analysis indicated that the research variables have significant positive relationships with each other. Regression analyses results showed that depression symptoms were predicted by the schemas of emotional deprivation, failure, pessimism, social isolation/insecurity, and self-sacrifice, while anxiety symptoms were predicted by the schemas of pessimism and vulnerability to threats. Mediation analysis revealed that EMS significantly mediated the relationships between ADHD symptoms and depression and anxiety. Pessimism, social isolation/insecurity, and failure were found to significantly mediate the relationship between ADHD symptoms and depression levels, while pessimism and vulnerability to threats were found to significantly mediate the relationship between ADHD symptoms and anxiety levels. The research findings were discussed within the scope of the existing literature. Finally, the clinical implications, limitations, and recommendations for future research were presented.