NWO Open Competition XS Grant for Research on Meaning in Life Among Adults with ADHD

Psychologist Mirjam Frey has been awarded an NWO-XS Open Competition grant for research into the role of meaning in life among adults with ADHD. In her project, she investigates whether a low sense of meaning in life contributes to ADHD symptoms—and whether a targeted psychological intervention can reduce those symptoms.

ADHD in adults is often viewed primarily as a neurobiological disorder, while existing treatments do not always provide sufficient relief. Frey therefore takes a different perspective. Adults with ADHD often experience difficulties in domains that are closely linked to meaning in life, such as work, relationships, autonomy, and life satisfaction. Attention problems, impulsivity, and difficulties with planning can make it challenging to pursue long-term goals and sustain meaningful activities.

In the first part of the research, Frey uses a new causal analysis technique (FCI algorithm) to examine whether a low sense of meaning is associated with core and associated ADHD symptoms. In a second study, she tests whether a recently developed and validated meaning-centered intervention can lead to fewer ADHD symptoms and an improved quality of life.

With this project, Frey aims to explore whether meaning in life is an underexamined yet relevant factor in understanding and treating adult ADHD. If this proves to be the case, it could open the door to additional treatment options for a group that often faces long-term impairments.