Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder symptoms in adults: Relationship to Gray’s Behavioral Approach System

Disinhibition has received considerable recognition as a primary deficit in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD). The goal of the present study was to investigate claims that Gray’s Behavioral Approach System (BAS) is linked to a disinhibitory deficit and can account for hyperactive-impulsive AD/HD behaviors. A sample of 184 undergraduates responded to measures of Gray’s and other personality dimensions. BAS scores were positively related to and were significant predictors of hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, and also appeared to be related to inattentive AD/HD symptoms in females. Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) scores did not predict hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, suggesting that it is not a primary deficit for hyperactive-impulsive behaviors. Other disinhibitory pathways along Gray’s model, such as a response modulation deficit, were supported. Overactive BAS functioning is offered as a contributor to hyperactive-impulsive symptoms in adults.