Introduction: ADHD significantly impacts college students’ academic performance and daily functioning. Self-efficacy in managing symptoms is crucial for coping, yet research on group-based occupational therapy (OT) interventions for enhancing self-efficacy in this population is limited. We are pilot-testing an ADHD OT group to promote self-efficacy in symptom management, potentially informing better support strategies in higher education.
Objectives: To examine the impact of ADHD OT group participation on college students' self-efficacy in managing ADHD symptoms.
Methods: This study uses a pre-post design with college students living with ADHD symptoms. Participants will engage in a 6-week ADHD group, focusing on self-management and coping strategies using the Lifestyle Redesign® intervention framework. Validated measures include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire, PROMIS Self-Efficacy scales, and U-SMILE to assess lifestyle behaviors. Analysis of pre-post changes in these measures and follow-up interviews will explore participants' experiences and perceived benefits.
Results: Of the 8 initial participants, 7 continued group participation while one transitioned to individual sessions. Participants included 4 males, 3 females, 4 graduate students, and 3 undergraduates. Four participants scored high to very high on the ASRS-11, while 3 scored mild to moderate. Six participants reported lower self-efficacy in symptom management, measured by the PROMIS Self-Efficacy tool. The ADHD group is on-going, with post-test assessment results pending.
Conclusion: This study will contribute to the OT profession by evaluating the potential of group-based interventions to enhance ADHD self-management. Findings will inform OT’s role in supporting academic success and well-being for college students with ADHD.