An Examination of the Effects of ADHD Coaching on University Students' Executive Functioning

Seven undergraduates at a selective Midwestern university participated in a semester-long pilot study regarding the impact of ADHD coaching services on their academic experiences. Coaches in the study had extensive qualifications, including specific training to address the needs of college students with ADHD. Three major themes emerged from qualitative interviews conducted with participants. First, students reported that their goal attainment skills improved by working with their coaches. In addition, students stated that they enjoyed working with coaches, whom they found to be effective and supportive. Finally, coaching helped students achieve a greater sense of well-being and self-regulation. These findings from thematic analysis of interviews are supported by quantitative data including administration of the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI), which resulted in a substantial mean gain pre/post in self-regulation, and analysis of students' grade point average data. It appears that coaching holds promise as an emerging type of academic support for college students with ADHD to promote improved executive functioning.