Rejection is a part of life that most of us have experienced at some point. Whether it's being turned down for a job or rejected by a romantic interest, the feeling can be painful and difficult to manage. However, for individuals with ADHD, rejection sensitivity can take on a whole new level of intensity. This is especially true for women with ADHD, who may face unique challenges in navigating relationships.
Rejection sensitivity refers to an intense emotional response to perceived or actual rejection. Individuals with ADHD are more likely to experience rejection sensitivity, which can cause them to overreact to social situations and perceive rejection where it may not exist. This can make it difficult to form and maintain relationships, as well as cause significant emotional distress.
For women with ADHD, the impact of rejection and rejection sensitivity can be especially challenging. Research has shown that women with ADHD face greater social difficulties than men with ADHD, including higher rates of social anxiety and greater difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships (1). This can be compounded by rejection sensitivity, which can make it even more difficult for women with ADHD to navigate social situations.
One particular manifestation of rejection sensitivity in ADHD is known as Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). RSD is a term coined by ADHD expert William Dodson, and refers to an intense emotional response to perceived rejection, often resulting in feelings of shame, sadness, and anxiety (2). While RSD can occur in both men and women with ADHD, research has suggested that women may be more likely to experience it (3).
The impact of RSD on women with ADHD in relationships can be significant. In one study, women with ADHD reported greater relationship difficulties and higher levels of emotional dysregulation compared to men with ADHD (4). This may be due in part to the impact of RSD on women's emotional well-being, which can make it difficult to maintain stable and healthy relationships.
What can help?
So, what can be done to help women with ADHD who experience RSD in their relationships? First, it's important to recognize that RSD is a real condition and not just an overreaction. Validating a partner's feelings and letting them know that their emotions are heard and understood can go a long way in helping them feel supported. Additionally, couples therapy can be a helpful tool for navigating the challenges that RSD can bring to a relationship.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of rejection sensitivity and emotional dysregulation in individuals with ADHD (5). CBT can help individuals learn to recognize and challenge negative thought patterns that may be contributing to rejection sensitivity, and develop more effective coping strategies for managing emotional responses.
In addition to therapy, there are also a number of practical strategies that women with ADHD can use to help manage rejection sensitivity in relationships. These might include setting clear boundaries, communicating openly and honestly with partners, and developing a support system of friends and family who can offer emotional support and validation.
In conclusion, rejection sensitivity and RSD can have a significant impact on women with ADHD in relationships. However, with the right strategies and support, it is possible to manage these symptoms and develop healthy and fulfilling relationships.
References:
Solanto, M. V. (2017). Social functioning in adults with ADHD. In Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: From genes to patients (pp. 245-262). Springer.
Dodson, W. W. (1995). Treatment of adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Journal of Counseling & Development, 74(3), 265-269.
Young, S., & Bramham, J. (2019). Cognitive-behavioural therapy for ADHD in adolescents and adults: A psychological guide to practice (2nd ed.). Wiley.
Hirvikoski, T., Lindholm, T., Nordenstrom, A., Nordstrom, A. L., & Lajic, S. (2011). High self-perceived stress and many stressors, but normal diurnal cortisol rhythm, in adults with ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). Hormones and Behavior
Comments