Date of Submission

2011

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP

First Advisor

Brad Rosenfield, Psy.D., Chairperson

Second Advisor

Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP

Third Advisor

Casey O’Donnell, Ph.D.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and general psychological characteristics in an adult, presurgery population of patients seeking Gastric Bypass (GB). An ADHD diagnosis was defined as clinically significant scores as measured by the Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale (CAARS). Other psychological characteristics were assessed using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory – Second Edition (MMPI-2). The sample was selected from a homogeneous adult outpatient population. Participants meeting inclusion criteria presented for psychological assessment preparatory to GB surgery at the office of Dr. Steven Walfish. Participants were excluded if they failed to complete valid CAARS and MMPI-2 protocols. The study was correlational in design. Results indicated that endorsement of psychological problems in a population seeking GB was consistent with the prevalence of ADHD in the general population. The participants endorsed a high rate of hyperactivity-impulsivity. The results of the study also revealed subclinical correlations between problems with executive functioning and psychological conditions. This sample was of a relatively high socioeconomic status, which may have selected against more severe psychopathology. Future research should examine the aforementioned characteristics in a lower socioeconomic sample

Share

COinS