Rejection Sensitivity Quiz

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Rejection sensitivity is the intense, painful reaction many adults with ADHD or AuDHD feel to criticism, rejection, or even the sense that someone is disappointed in them. It can land physically, like a blow to the chest, and one small knock-back can outweigh a dozen good things. It is common, it is brain-based, and it is not a character flaw.

The term comes from the work of Dr William Dodson MD, who found that for many people, simply having a name for it brings real relief.

This short quiz is a gentle, non-diagnostic way to notice how rejection sensitivity might be showing up for you right now. Some people turn it inward, with rumination and harsh self-criticism. Others turn it outward, as a flash of anger or defensiveness. Many do both. If you mask, people-please, or aim for perfect so that nothing can be criticised, that can be part of the same picture too.

There are 15 questions. Answer each one honestly, based on how things really are for you, not how you would like them to be.

Your results appear straight away when you finish. A copy is also sent to your email address.

Step 1 of 3 - Page 1

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1. When someone says "can we have a quick word?", I assume it is going to be bad news.(Required)
2. I find myself reading people closely for any sign they are annoyed or disappointed with me.(Required)
3. I assume the worst in ordinary interactions, even when there is no real sign of it.(Required)
4. A small piece of criticism affects me far more than it probably warrants.(Required)
5. When I feel rejected, it lands physically, like a blow to the chest or a drop in my stomach.(Required)

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Want to understand the science? Dr William Dodson MD explains rejection sensitive dysphoria in adults with ADHD at ADDitude. This quiz draws on his work. It is for personal awareness only and is not a diagnostic tool.

Linda Fox, Adult ADHD Life & Business Coach

About Linda Fox

Linda Fox is an ICF-ACC credentialled Adult ADHD Life & Business Coach (CALC), coaching since 2000, with lived experience of ADHD herself. She works with entrepreneurs, legal and medical professionals, and others navigating demanding careers, helping them build practical strategies that fit how their brain actually works rather than fighting against it. UK-based, supporting clients with ADHD and AuDHD worldwide on Zoom.

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