Structural Model of Executive Functions on ADHD With Mediating Role of Depression and Anxiety

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder has been associated with deficiencies in executive function as well as disorders such as depression and anxiety, especially in adulthood. However, the manner of this relationship has not been investigated in detail. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the structural model of executive functions and ADHD concerning the mediating role of depression and anxiety in university students with ADHD. The method was correlational with the structural equation modeling type. The statistical population included all students with ADHD in Isfahan, Iran. During the initial screening, out of 1368 students, 280 were diagnosed with ADHD. Among them, 200 were selected by purposeful sampling. The tools used were Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scale (2011), Barkley Deficits in Executive Function Scale (2011), mental health questionnaire (1973), and ADHD diagnostic interview (2010). The maximum likelihood estimator and bootstrap significance test analyzed the data. The results indicated a good fit of the data obtained from the sample with the hypothetical conceptual model. The fit indices of the model were as follows: X2=2681.89, df=1402, CFI=.93, GFI=.90, RMSEA=.05. Considering the significance, the direct effects of executive functions on depression, some dimensions of ADHD, like sluggish cognitive tempo, and the significant indirect effects of executive functions on ADHD subscales are evident. Based on the findings, the mediating role of depression is approved. In conclusion, the deficiency of executive functions, directly and through the mediation of depression, causes cognitive deficits, including attention deficit and sluggish cognitive tempo.