Objective: This study examined the extent to which ADHD was associated with risky sexual behaviors (RSBs) in a sample of 92 undergraduates with (n = 44) and without (n = 48) ADHD. Mother-child relationship quality was examined as a potential moderator.
Method: We conducted comprehensive assessments for ADHD and comorbid conditions and collected measures of RSB and mother-child relationship quality.
Results: Female students with ADHD were least likely to use condoms than males overall and females without ADHD. An interaction between ADHD and mother-child relationship quality accounted for significant variance in the number of past-year sexual partners, such that a high-quality relationship was protective only for students with ADHD. No other significant associations were found between ADHD and RSB.
Conclusion: Results suggest that female college students with ADHD are at risk for unprotected sex. Moreover, a positive mother-child relationship may be protective for college students with ADHD in relation to RSB.
Keywords: ADHD; alcohol; parent–child relationship; risky behavior; sexual behavior.
© 2012 SAGE Publications.