Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and academic entrepreneurial preference: is there an association?

Although commercialization of research activities has drawn some research attention, more studies are warranted to clearly understand the drivers behind academic entrepreneurship. The present paper investigates the association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and academic entrepreneurial preference. ADHD symptoms have typically been associated with impaired occupational functioning among wage employees. Recent studies, however, indicate that the same symptoms of ADHD that are a liability for wage employees may work out differently for entrepreneurs. Building on previous studies that link ADHD symptoms to entrepreneurship, and using the theoretical lens of person-environment fit, we hypothesize that ADHD symptoms (at the so-called subclinical level) are associated with academic entrepreneurial preference. Results of our data from academic researchers in France, Spain, and Italy (N = 534) show that there is a negative association between attention-deficit symptoms and academic entrepreneurial preference. However, there is no link between hyperactivity symptoms and academic entrepreneurial preference

Yellow sunflowers on SGS

Large yellow flowers along fenceline on SGS, closer view

Cactus in grass on SGS

Opuntia cactus on the SGS, showing nearby vegetation

Cactus in grass on SGS

Opuntia cactus on the SGS, showing nearby vegetation

Backlit blue grama

Blue grama seed heads backlit and glowing, over cactus on SGS

Grazing strip

View down right side fence of grazing strip with herd on right side of fences

Sun on SGS

Looking across vegetation with frost, water or small flowers on the SGS, mountains in the distance

Cow on SGS

Cow with yellow and red ear tags, grazing on SGS

Yellow sunflowers along fence

Large yellow flowers along fenceline on SGS

Cows out standing on the SGS

Four cows staring at camera on SGS, others in distance, yellow spring flowers in foreground