Abstract
ADHD is associated with impairments but also strengths like creativity. How inattentiveness and hyperactivity-impulsivity contribute to creativity, and how potential factors influence and contribute to the link, remain unclear. This study examined the unique contribution of inattentiveness and hyperactivity-impulsivity to creativity (divergent thinking and creative achievement) and explored the influences of novelty seeking, extraversion, persistence, hyperfocus, and self-restraint in these associations across two independent studies. Data were obtained from two independent university student samples (n = 158, n = 122) via online testing. Divergent thinking was assessed using the Alternate Uses Task; creative achievement, ADHD traits, and potential influencing and contributing factors were measured through self-report questionnaires. Inattentiveness and hyperactivity-impulsivity correlated with creativity in both samples: hyperactivity-impulsivity was the stronger predictor. Among all the potential contributing factors, only hyperfocus accounted for part of the association between inattentiveness and creative achievement. Our findings indicate that hyperactivity-impulsivity is the dominant ADHD trait dimension in the association with creativity. Hyperfocus accounted for part of the associations between inattentiveness and creative achievement, suggesting it may be a factor contributing to this association. Understanding positive phenotypes associated with neurodevelopmental conditions can optimize psychoeducation, reduce stigma, and improve the quality of life for those affected.