Adolescence is a pivotal time for developing close friendships, which play a crucial role in emotional well-being and social development. For adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), forming and maintaining these relationships can present unique challenges. However, emerging research offers a nuanced understanding of how ADHD symptoms influence friendship dynamics, highlighting both obstacles and potential strengths.
The Complex Landscape of ADHD and Friendships
Adolescents with ADHD often experience difficulties in peer relationships, including fewer stable friendships and increased social challenges compared to their typically developing peers. These challenges are frequently attributed to core ADHD symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can interfere with social interactions and the development of mutual understanding.
Surprising Insights: ADHD Symptoms and Friendship Quality
Contrary to common assumptions, Glass, Flory and Hankin (2012) revealed that certain ADHD symptoms might be associated with positive perceptions of friendship quality. Specifically, symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity were positively related to self-reported friendship quality among adolescents with ADHD. Additionally, inattention symptoms correlated positively with friend-reported friendship quality. These findings suggest that, despite broader social difficulties, adolescents with ADHD may still form close, supportive friendships.
The Role of Social Understanding and Empathy
Social cognition, including theory of mind (ToM) and empathy, is critical for successful peer interactions. Research indicates that children with ADHD often exhibit deficits in these areas, which can impact the quality of their friendships. A study by Kouvava et al., (2025) found that children with ADHD scored lower on measures of empathy and advanced ToM compared to their peers, which was associated with lower friendship quality. These findings underscore the importance of interventions aimed at enhancing social understanding to improve peer relationships.
Friendship Stability and Conflict Over Time
Longitudinal studies provide insight into how friendships evolve for adolescents with ADHD. Normand et al., (2013) observed that over a six-month period, friends of children with ADHD reported decreased satisfaction and increased conflict in their relationships. Interestingly, the children with ADHD did not perceive these changes, highlighting a potential disconnect in self-awareness regarding social dynamics. This emphasises the need for strategies that enhance social insight and conflict resolution skills
Strategies for Supporting Friendship Development
Given the complexities of friendship experiences for adolescents with ADHD, targeted support is essential. Interventions may include:
- Social Skills Training: Programs that focus on improving communication, empathy, and conflict resolution can be beneficial.
- Parental and Teacher Involvement: Active collaboration among caregivers and educators can reinforce positive social behaviours and provide consistent support.
- Structured Social Opportunities: Facilitating participation in group activities or clubs can offer controlled environments for practicing social interactions.
- Therapeutic Support: Counselling and coaching can address underlying emotional or behavioural issues that affect peer relationships.