Is There Any Relationship between ADHD Symptoms and Choosing Sports Education at the University?

Abstract

More systematic studies with larger samples in this domain will be useful in obtaining a clearer picture regarding professional attraction of people with ADHD to sports.

The association between polygenic scores for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and school performance: The role of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, polygenic scores for educational attainment, and shared familial factors

“…Grades may capture school performance more broadly, as teachers evaluate student performance across different dimensions (Brookhart et al., 2016 ). Moreover, genetic factors affect both subject choice, performance (Rimfeld et al., 2016 ), and ADHD symptoms have been positively associated with choosing sport educational university programs (Gökçen et al., 2013 ). Thus, variability in associations between PGS for ADHD and subject type is plausible but untested.…”

Athletes With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Position Statement of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine

“…92 The Role of Exercise in the Treatment of ADHD Despite being the most commonly diagnosed pediatric psychiatric disorder, 93 the prevalence of ADHD may be disproportionately represented in athletes because of the attention-activating effects of physical activity. 3,11,12,14,[94][95][96][97][98] Athletes, families, and caregivers who are apprehensive about the mainstream treatment with psychostimulant medications may seek exercise as an alternative therapeutic option. 3,11,93 Sports participation may help develop physical skills and control in young athletes with ADHD by building motor coordination and static-dynamic balance and improving their psychosocial skills.…”

“…Athletic participation and regular exercise serve as emotional and physical outlets and offer positive reinforcement in a venue where impulsivity can be an advantage. 11,95,96,99 Evidence suggests that intense exercise is beneficial for major symptoms observed in children with ADHD (ie, lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviors). 93 Although only a minimum volume of exercise is needed to attain meaningful symptom improvement, physical activity past the minimum may further improve symptoms.…”

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Unique Considerations in Athletes

“…ADHD incidence in the general school-age population approaches 3% to 10%, with evidence suggesting that this percentage may be higher among athletes. 6 , 17 , 34 , 37 , 42 The main explanation for this is the positive influence that athletic participation appears to have on individuals with ADHD. 22 , 30 Athletic participation can serve as a reliable emotional and physical outlet for coping with symptoms.…”

“… 22 , 30 Athletic participation can serve as a reliable emotional and physical outlet for coping with symptoms. 17 , 30 , 34 Athletic involvement also tends to be an environment to experience positive reinforcement, and individuals with ADHD sometimes naturally excel in their sports (because of their inherent impulsivity placing them at a natural advantage for making quick and reactionary decisions). 17 , 34 This is in contrast to academic settings, which can be a source of stress and trouble, creating an environment where individuals with ADHD may often be less successful.…”