A Phenomenological Study on the Work Experiences of Young Working Adults with ADHD

The purpose of this study is to understand the subjective difficulties of work and relationship issues experienced and how they adjust to the challenges of young working adults with ADHD, - as well as- perceive the meanings of work. We recruited eight young working adults with ADHD, and conducted in-depth interviews and analyses based on Giorgi’s phenomenological research method. Six themes and 17 sub-themes were identified: "Lost in a confusing world not visible to others,"-"Turning into an idiot who can’t work in the workplaces,"-"Unable to figure out how to get out of it,"-"Embarrassed by the unbelievable diagnosis but accepting it,"-"Creating my coping algorithm," and "Finding suitable jobs and environments." This study enlightened the lived experiences of young adults with ADHD in the workplace and revealed the nature of them. Finally, counseling and institutional intervention for young adults with ADHD and the direction of future studies were suggested.