Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric condition. The essential features are patterns of impulsivity and/or hyperactivity and/or inattention. These symptoms can be severe and place a strain on home life, educational performance, workplace achievement and interpersonal relationships.

The worldwide prevalence of ADHD in children and adolescents is between 5-7%. In some cases, these symptoms are maintained across development; it is estimated that 3-5% of adults experience ADHD.

We study the neuropsychological characteristics of ADHD, in adolescents and adults. Individuals with ADHD (along with their siblings) are welcome to visit our research center, and contribute their time, effort and insights towards this scientific research. Individuals complete a number of neuropsychological tasks, short questionnaires and neurophysiological assessments, e.g. electroencephalogram (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

The involvement of adolescents and adults with ADHD, along with their family members, will help us develop a sophisticated and comprehensive understanding of this condition. Such knowledge is paramount for the development of accurate diagnostics and optimized interventions.

We want to better understand the psychological and familial characteristics of ADHD in adults. Our aim is to compare the cognitive and sensory characteristics of adults with ADHD relative to their non-ADHD siblings. This work is part of a project titled: The heritability profile of cognitive and sensory deficits in ADHD. Here, the lead researcher is Dr. Hanni Kiiski (under the supervision of Prof. Whelan).

We also want to investigate the impact of anxiety on ADHD. Our aim is to explore how anxiety interacts with the ADHD symptoms like inattention and impulsivity. This work is part of project titled: The transdiagnostic mechanism underlying ADHD and anxiety. Here, the lead researcher is Dr. Marc Bennett (under the supervision of Prof. Whelan).