ADHD in the digital age: exploring the well-being of adults with attention difficulties in Facebook support groups

Vollständiger Abstract

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Purpose Facebook support groups provide opportunities for emotional support and social connection among individuals with shared health conditions. This study examined the relationships among online engagement, perceived social support, self-compassion and well-being among adults with attention difficulties (ADHD) participating in Facebook groups. Design/methodology/approach The sample included 405 adults who reported having ADHD or attention difficulties, recruited from two types of Facebook groups: members of ADHD-specific Facebook support groups and members of unrelated, neutral groups. Four key variables were assessed: online engagement, social support, self-compassion and well-being. Analyses included descriptive, comparative, correlational, regression and structural equation modeling techniques. Findings Significant differences between the types of groups were found in two of the four variables: self-compassion and well-being, with both showing significant interactions with gender. Women in ADHD-related groups reported lower self-criticism than women in neutral groups, suggesting that emotional support in these groups may help reduce self-criticism. Conversely, men in ADHD-related groups reported lower levels of well-being than in neutral groups, indicating that they may experience less comfort engaging in emotionally supportive interactions online. Originality/value These results highlight the potential of Facebook groups to function as support systems that enhance well-being for individuals with attention difficulties. They also raise important questions regarding the role of gender in shaping experiences of belonging and support in digital environments.