Attentional Control in Women with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) - Differences and Commonalities

<p dir="ltr">Systematic Literature Review: The narrative literature review explores the distinctions and commonalities between ADHD and BPD in women. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic literature search identified 17 studies for inclusion. Included studies assessed various difficulties linked to ADHD and BPD, comparing them between clinical groups using diverse methods. Main areas of difficulty examined were Emotional Dysregulation, Impulsivity, Character Traits, Cognitive Processes, Trauma and Sleep. Quality of the included studies was assessed using the Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS). Study quality and results were mixed. While some studies found distinguishing areas of difficulty, others did not. Ultimately, assessed difficulties demonstrated significant overlap. Identified differences between ADHD and BPD were linked to variations in levels or profiles of difficulty rather than the existence or absence of difficulties, particularly when considering gender. The discussion covers limitations and both theoretical and practical implications.</p><p dir="ltr">Empirical Study: This online study aimed to establish potential commonalities and differences in difficulties of ADHD and BPD women. The Attention Network Test (ANT) assessed differences in attentional control. Scores on the ANT and psychometric measures on ADHD and BPD difficulties, alongside mental health, were quantitatively analysed and compared between the two clinical populations and a control group. The results showed minimal differences between the two clinical groups in terms of attentional control and psychometrically assessed difficulty profiles and significant differences from controls for both groups. Standard effects of the ANT established in the literature were replicated; however, no significant differences in attentional profiles between ADHD and BPD women were identified. Psychometric scores did not predict ANT scores better than diagnostic labels. Results and their limitations are critically discussed in the context of potential explanations for the lack of distinctions between the two clinical groups and their clinical and research implications.</p>