Author: Rachael Carter | Major: Psychological Science and Biological Sciences | Semester: Spring 2025

My name is Rachael Carter and I am a senior undergraduate student at the University of
Arkansas in Fayetteville. I am an honors student in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences studying Psychological Science and Biological Sciences. I am working on my
undergraduate research in the Department of Psychological Science under Dr. Ellen
Leen-Feldner, PhD. During the Spring 2025 semester, I engaged in study design and manuscript
writing in preparation for project launch on Part 2 of my thesis study, and I disseminated findings
from Part 1 of my study at the Anxiety and Depression Association of America’s national
conference in April 2025. I am graduating from the University of Arkansas with my Bachelor of
Arts degree in December 2025. After graduation, I plan to attend medical school.

My research focuses on examining the effects of cannabis use and various cannabinoid
molecules on ADHD-related outcomes, namely, ADHD symptom frequency and sleep
disturbances and related impairments. My study includes a controlled comparison of four groups
of adults who report ADHD diagnosis: those who use cannabinoids, stimulant medication, both,
or neither. Under Dr. Leen-Feldner, the PETAL Lab at the University of Arkansas has engaged in
rigorous empirical work on the effects of cannabinoids such as CBD and CBG on various
psychological outcomes. After the passing of the Farm Bill of 2018, access to hemp-derived
products skyrocketed, and consumer behaviors reflect a growing interest in the therapeutic
potential of such substances. More specifically, previous data suggests that adults with ADHD
self-medicate with cannabis for its perceived benefits on related symptoms and medication side
effects. The scientific landscape for cannabis in the context of ADHD is small but growing, and
is relatively uncontrolled. No study thus far has included stimulant medication users and an
ADHD-diagnosed control group in their evaluation of the effects of cannabis on ADHD. This
work is necessary to inform future laboratory-based studies and to bridge the gap between
empirical understanding and consumer behaviors.

I chose my topic after the first year of my involvement in Dr. Leen-Feldner’s research lab
and learning about the growing landscape of cannabinoid research. Further, my graduate mentor
and I share interest in the manifestation patterns and treatments of ADHD, and my research topic
came about as a natural intersection of the two. My research on this topic has taught me that the
scientific process is not always a linear one, but that quality research comes from resilience,
adaptability, and patience. In fact, during the data collection process for Part 1 of my study, I was
surprised to find that through the funding mechanism, I was unable to recruit all groups
necessary for a complete target sample (i.e., non-cannabinoid users, control). After careful
consideration and discussion with my mentor, I reasoned that these groups were vital for proper
control and to best address my research question. I then sought and was awarded the SURF grant
to extend my study. Dr. Leen-Feldner, my graduate mentor, and my undergraduate peers have
provided valuable feedback and guidance through every step of my research process, from
design rationale and manuscript writing to dissemination of my findings. Thanks to my SURF
funds, I had the opportunity this semester to travel to the Anxiety and Depression Association of
America’s National Conference Las Vegas, Nevada and disseminate my findings with my first
poster presentation. This summer, I am continuing to write my project’s manuscript f and
collecting data for the second part of my study for a Fall 2025 thesis defense. Thanks to my
mentors, peers, and the SURF grant, I have the opportunity to conduct novel research on a
clinical sample, which is incredibly valuable as I prepare for medical school and a career in
science.