Distinguishing Neurodevelopmental Impulsivity from Perceived Manipulation: A Mixed-Methods Study on ADHD Traits and Machiavellianism Among Young Adults

Abstract

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and attentional difficulties that frequently persist into adulthood. Behaviours associated with ADHD, particularly emotional intensity and rapid reactions, are often socially misunderstood and may be interpreted as intentional manipulation. In contrast, Machiavellianism represents a personality construct defined by strategic manipulation, emotional detachment, and goal-oriented interpersonal control. Despite clear theoretical distinctions, overlapping behavioural appearances may lead observers to attribute impulsive actions to manipulative intent.

The present study examined whether ADHD traits are statistically associated with Machiavellianism and explored how individuals with elevated ADHD traits experience social interpretation of their behaviour. A mixed-methods explanatory sequential design was employed. Quantitative data were collected using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) and the Machiavellianism subscale of the Short Dark Triad (SD3). Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews exploring lived experiences of behavioural labeling and interpersonal misunderstanding among young adults aged 18–25 years within a non-clinical Indian sample.

Correlation analysis revealed a small positive but statistically non-significant relationship between ADHD traits and Machiavellianism (r = .199, p = .092), suggesting that the constructs represent distinct psychological processes. Qualitative findings identified recurring themes including perceived misinterpretation, emotional overwhelm, impulsivity versus intentionality, and social withdrawal following negative labeling. Participants consistently described their behaviour as emotionally reactive rather than strategically manipulative.

The findings support the existence of an “intentionality gap” between internal emotional experience and external social judgment. The study contributes to conceptual clarification between neurodevelopmental impulsivity and personality-based manipulation while highlighting attributional bias in interpersonal perception. Implications include stigma reduction, improved clinical understanding, and enhanced psychoeducational awareness regarding ADHD-related interpersonal behaviour among young adults.