Date of Conferral

7-9-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Denise Horton

Abstract

ADHD in adolescents is a common diagnosis, with exposure to daily electronic use. There is strong evidence for a relationship between electronic use and ADHD in adolescents. However, there is a gap on electronic use, internalized feelings, and sleep behaviors in ADHD adolescents and how sleep behaviors might impact that relationship. ADHD has its core symptoms that impact the individual daily. These symptoms need to be taken into consideration when looking at internalized feelings and sleep behavior patterns. The theoretical framework that aligns with this study is the Dopaminergic Dysregulation Theory (DDT). This theory is a module that suggests that one’s severe symptoms are due to an imbalance of dopamine activity in the brain. Moreover, another theory that aligns with this study is Uses and Gratifications theory which explains for the reason one chooses to use electronics. The purpose of this quantitative study utilizing surveys was to examine the relationship between the variables in order to address a significant gap in the literature. Utilizing regression analyses, findings show a relationship between parents’ perceptions of their children’s electronic use and their children’s internalized feelings. There was no statistical evidence for the relationship between children’s electronic use predicting internalized feelings and if sleep behaviors moderate the relationship between electronic use and internalized feelings. Findings from this study help clarify the relationship between all variables contribution to existing literature and enhancing social change initiatives by providing knowledge to healthcare providers, parents, and educators providing guidance on best way to support ADHD adolescents who use electronics.

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