Neurodivergence brilliance: unveiling the power of ADHD traits as catalysts for leadership potential, citizenship behaviour and performance

Purpose This study investigates the influence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) traits (hyperactivity, in-attention and impulsivity) on leadership potential (LP), citizenship behaviour and employee performances. Design/methodology/approach Data for the current research paper are collected from 157 employees working across different organizations operating in Gujarat, India. Researcher used partial least square structural equation modelling SmartPLS 4.1.0.9 version to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings The results show that hyperactivity and impulsivity are positively related with perceived LP and inattention is negatively related. Leader potential strongly mediates the association between ADHD traits and organization citizenship behaviour (OCB) and that with EP. The model has high explanatory and predictive value and is aligned with a contingency approach to be extended to the workplace if ADHD is managed well. Practical implications The findings highlight the need for organizations to design inclusive leadership development programmes, adaptive job roles and neurodiversity-aware human resource (HR) policies. Recognizing ADHD traits as potential leadership strengths can enhance employee engagement, discretionary effort and overall organizational performance. Originality/value This study adds to the expanding body of research about the influence of hyperactivity, in-attention and impulsivity under ADHD trait on LP, OCB and EP. The findings highlight how crucial it is for researchers to use different approaches in order to gain more comprehensive understanding on ADHD traits as it is more or less perceived as a disease or disorder only which is incorrect. It should also be perceived more as an opportunity to utilize employee’s strengths differently.