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Anna Elysse Lee, PsyD, is a 2025 graduate of the PsyD program in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University, Seattle.

Dissertation Committee:

William Heusler, PsyD, Committee Chair

Christopher Varley, MD, Committee Member

Dana Water, PsyD, Committee Member

Keywords

ADHD, trauma, adults, interpretative phenomenological analysis

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This dissertation explored the lived experiences of psychological trauma in adults diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) methodology, seven participants exhibiting clinically significant symptoms of psychological trauma completed semi-structured interviews to share their personal narratives. Following analysis, data was consolidated into five group experiential themes: (a) patterns of negative relationships, (b) dysfunctional family dynamics, (c) recognition of role in interpersonal conflict, (d) validation through ADHD diagnosis, and (e) ADHD and trauma as intertwined. The identified themes underscore the importance of trauma-informed clinical approaches that address relational difficulties and emotional regulation among this population, while emphasizing the therapeutic utility of diagnosis despite challenges in accurate diagnosis and confusion discussed by participants. This study contributes to current understandings of the complex interaction between psychological trauma and ADHD, and further emphasizes the need for individually tailored clinical intervention and assessment practices that integrate trauma-informed care.

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Anna Elysse Lee, PsyD, 2025

ORCID Scholar No. 0009-0009-5899-8997

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