An Evaluation of Behavioral Approach in Adults with ADHD

Motivational models emphasizing altered reinforcement sensitivity have been increasingly implicated in etiological accounts
of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Overactive behavioral approach tendencies are identified among these motivational
models and are addressed within reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST). RST proposes that overactive behavioral approach is
associated with over responsiveness to immediately reinforcing stimuli and results from an overactive appetitive motivational
subsystem of the brain—the behavioral approach system. The current study tested the hypothesis that behavioral approach would
be higher in a clinical sample of adults diagnosed with ADHD relative to a control group. Experimental and self-report measures
of behavioral approach were administered. Behavioral approach was higher in the ADHD group across both methods of assessment.
Effect size estimates fell within the medium to large range. Implications for how these findings might be incorporated into
future ADHD models are discussed.