Examining ADHD, Depression, and Race as Predictors of Self-Efficacy in Incarcerated Men

Incarcerated individuals disproportionately experience higher rates of psychiatric disorders, including an over-representation of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression. Previous research has highlighted the association between ADHD and lower levels of self-efficacy in adults. Existing literature suggests that for incarcerated individuals, higher levels of self-efficacy are associated with enhanced coping skills to manage stressors and better preparation for community reentry. Using data from the Multi-Site Family Study of Incarceration, Parenting, and Partnering, a hierarchical multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between ADHD symptoms and self-efficacy while controlling for depression, age, education, race, and years incarcerated. Results indicated that higher ADHD symptoms were significantly associated with lower self-efficacy, even after accounting for depression, age, education, race, and years incarcerated. Depression emerged as a significant negative predictor of self-efficacy, and both ADHD and depression independently predicted lower self-efficacy. Identifying as Black (relative to white) was positively associated with self-efficacy, suggesting potential cultural protective factors worthy of further exploration. These findings highlight the relevance of ADHD, depression, and race in understanding self-efficacy among incarcerated men, with implications for clinical treatment.