Investigating a Self-Management Strategy for Symptoms of Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder and Drug Use.

Introduction: The purpose of the present research was to examine the mediating effect that self-management has on the relationships between ADHD symptoms and nicotine dependence,alcohol use, and drug use among an undergraduate student population. Method: Data were drawn from undergraduate psychology students (N=141). We tested self-management as a mediator between (1) ADHD symptoms and nicotine use, (2) ADHD symptoms and alcohol use, and (3) ADHD symptoms and drug use. Results: Self-management was a significant mediator between ADHD symptoms and drug use, but not nicotine dependence or alcohol use. Conclusion: Self-management was a significant mediator between ADHD symptoms and drug use, which suggests that self-management may play a role in the relationship between ADHD symptoms and drug use. Individuals who have symptoms associated withADHD and who also have high levels of self-management are less likely to use drugs.