Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorderalso called ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to learn, focus and behave. The most common symptoms of ADHD are short attention span, movements, hyperactivity, aggression, anxiety and repetition of words. It can affect at any age. Also read | Can Massage Help Manage ADHD in Adolescents? Here’s what the study says

However, a recent one study published in BMC Psychiatry states that women with ADHD are more likely to engage in risky behaviors than men. The study is a wake-up call about gender-specific treatment options that should be available to treat the condition effectively.

The results of the study:

The study was conducted on 29 adults with ADHD (16 men and 13 women) and 33 healthy subjects (14 men and 19 women), all between the ages of 18 and 60. They were asked to perform a modified version of the Balloon Analog Risk Task where they were asked to see a balloon on the screen that was automatically inflated. The bigger the balloon became, it signified more monetary gains but at the cost of the balloon exploding and leading to financial loss. Also read | ADHD: Factors Affecting Symptoms; therapist explains

During the task, skin conductance responses of the participants were observed by the researchers to understand their psychological changes with emotional arousal. The participants also underwent an assessment of emotional competence, risk perception and sensitivity to feedback.

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ADHD: Women vs Men

The results of the study revealed that during the Balloon Analog Risk Task, women with ADHD showed more propensity for risky behavior. However, no such sex-specific differences were observed during psychological changes as measured by skin conductance responses. Also read | Alia Bhatt opens up about her ADHD diagnosis: What is it? 6 symptoms of the common neurodevelopmental disorder

Also during the self-assessment form, it was observed that women with ADHD showed lower sensitivity to their own risky behaviors, suggesting the risk of not being aware of their perception and tendencies. Also read | Breaking down ADHD: 6 symptoms and their causes

The study aims to raise awareness of the gender-specific treatment options that should be made available to treat the condition effectively, for both men and women.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor if you have questions about a medical condition.