Entrepreneurship and ADHD: A Meta-Analytical Assessment of the State-of-the-Art and Suggestions for the Future

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been increasingly linked to entrepreneurship, yet existing findings remain fragmented and, at times, contradictory. This meta-analysis synthesizes 298 effect sizes from 47 studies to examine the relationships between ADHD (inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, total symptoms, and clinical diagnosis) and entrepreneurial attitudes, behaviors, and post-launch outcomes. The results show hyperactivity/impulsivity is positively associated with entrepreneurial attitudes and behaviors, but not significantly related to post-launch outcomes. Conversely, inattention is negatively associated with post-launch outcomes. Total ADHD symptoms and diagnosis are positively related to entrepreneurial behaviors, yet negatively linked to outcomes. We conclude by proposing directions for future research. JEL code: L26, I10, J24