Using the temporal motivation theory to explain the relation between ADHD and procrastination

ABSTRACT Objective The relationship between ADHD and procrastination is recognised among therapists and educators. However, only a few studies confirm this correlation, and even fewer offer a theoretical explanation. A model of procrastination exists in Steel’s Temporal Motivation Theory, according to which procrastination is fostered by the following motivation factors: a low expectancy of completing the task successfully, negative task value, and impulsiveness – the sensitivity to the delay until realisation. This study aims to establish the correlation between procrastination and ADHD and examine whether these motivation factors explain this correlation. Method Two hundred and two adult participants completed an online survey containing demographic background and scales of adult ADHD symptoms, procrastination, expectancy, task aversiveness, and impulsiveness. Results ADHD symptoms significantly and positively correlated with procrastination, task aversiveness, and impulsiveness and negatively correlated with expectancy (all Ps < .001). Mediation analysis suggested that lower expectancy and higher impulsiveness partially explained the correlation between ADHD and procrastination. Conclusions These findings help establish the strong relationship between ADHD and procrastination while demonstrating that the relationship is partially explained by a low expectancy of completing a task successfully and high levels of impulsiveness. Key Points What is already known about this topic: Adult ADHD symptoms are associated with functional impairment. The relationship between ADHD and procrastination is recognised among therapists and educators. Few controlled studies established and explained the link between ADHD and procrastination. What this topic adds: In an adult sample, ADHD symptoms are related to a higher level of procrastination. ADHD symptoms and procrastination correlated with low expectancy of completing the task, high task aversiveness, and high impulsiveness. Mediation analysis suggested that lower expectancy and higher impulsiveness partially explained the correlation between ADHD and procrastination.