Vocational Identity as a Protective Factor for the Occupational Functioning of Adults With ADHD

Vocational identity has consistently been linked to occupational well-being, yet its role among adults with ADHD remains unclear. This study examined the benefits of a clear vocational identity to job satisfaction, work amotivation, and income in context of ADHD. Participants were 100 full-time employees with ADHD (51% male; ages 19–30). Controlling for age, sex, and medication status, path analyses revealed a clear vocational identity was associated with higher levels of job satisfaction and protected against work amotivation. ADHD symptoms and executive function problems (time management, organization, motivation) were associated with lower levels of a clear vocational identity. Regression analyses further revealed that a clear vocational identity moderated the adverse effects of ADHD symptoms and executive function problems on job satisfaction and work motivation. Altogether, our findings provide initial evidence that a clear vocational identity may be protective and a promising intervention target for occupational functioning among adults with ADHD.