Female ADHD and the Professional Context: A Narrative Literature Review

Journal title PSICOLOGIA DELLA SALUTE
Author/s Valentina Tirelli, Elisa Serafini, Maristella Scorza, Deborah Toscani
Publishing Year 2026 Issue 2026/3
Language Italian Pages 23 P. 123-145 File size 244 KB
DOI 10.3280/PDS2026-003009
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Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), together with other conditions such as autism, dyslexia, and dyspraxia, falls within the broader concept of neurodiversity, which recent estimates suggest affects approximately 22% of the population. Despite this, women with ADHD remain frequently underdiagnosed and tend to receive a diagnosis later than men, partly due to a less overt symptom presentation that is often more aligned with social expectations. Consequently, the emotional characteristics, psychological functioning, and overall well-being of women with ADHD remain less explored compared to male samples. Particular attention should be given to the workplace context, where the needs of women with ADHD are still underrepresented in the literature and insufficiently addressed in support practices. Existing research highlights that these women may encounter specific professional challenges, often intertwined with the presence of psychopathological comorbidities and distinct patterns of functioning that can negatively impact overall well-being and quality of life. Within this framework, social support emerges as a crucial factor in mitigating difficulties and promoting better adjustment at both personal and occupational levels. Supportive relationships can strengthen individual resources and foster more effective strategies for managing daily demands. In light of these considerations, there is a clear need to develop more targeted interventions and practices that address the specific needs of women with ADHD. A multidimensional approach, encompassing psychological, social, and occupational aspects, is essential to enhance psychological well-being, support adaptive functioning, and enable these women to fully realize their potential.

Keywords: ADHD, Women, Workplace inclusion, Comorbidity.

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Valentina Tirelli, Elisa Serafini, Maristella Scorza, Deborah Toscani, ADHD nelle donne e contesto lavorativo: una revisione narrativa della letteratura in "PSICOLOGIA DELLA SALUTE" 3/2026, pp 123-145, DOI: 10.3280/PDS2026-003009