Free RSD Quiz - Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria Test

RSD is an intense emotional response to the perception of being rejected, criticized, or failing to meet expectations. It is extremely common in people with ADHD and can cause sudden, overwhelming emotional pain that feels unbearable in the moment.

RSD is not currently listed in the DSM-5 as a separate diagnosis. However, it is widely recognized by ADHD specialists as a common and significant aspect of ADHD. Dr. William Dodson, a leading ADHD expert, has been instrumental in bringing awareness to RSD.

Everyone experiences some sensitivity to rejection. RSD is distinguished by its intensity (the pain feels unbearable), its speed (it can be triggered instantly), and its impact (it can derail your entire day or lead to major life decisions). The emotional response is often disproportionate to the actual event.

The Quick Quiz takes 1-2 minutes with 6 questions. The Full Assessment takes 3-5 minutes with 12 questions covering all three sensitivity categories.

Yes, RSD can be managed through several approaches: ADHD medications (which can reduce overall emotional reactivity), alpha-agonist medications (guanfacine, clonidine), therapy (CBT, DBT), and self-management strategies like mindfulness and cognitive restructuring.

Not everyone with ADHD experiences RSD, but it is estimated that up to 99% of adults with ADHD experience some degree of rejection sensitivity. The severity varies widely from person to person.

Yes, RSD can trigger physical symptoms including chest tightness, stomach pain, nausea, a sinking feeling, and even flu-like symptoms. These are real physical responses to the emotional pain of perceived rejection.

Yes, this quiz is completely anonymous. Your responses are used only to calculate your results and are not stored with any identifying information.

Be clear and direct in communication (ambiguity triggers RSD), provide reassurance, validate their feelings, avoid sarcasm or teasing, and understand that their emotional responses are genuine and not an overreaction from their perspective.

Yes, you can retake the quiz anytime. Your sensitivity levels may vary based on current stress, medication, and life circumstances.

While RSD and social anxiety can look similar, RSD is primarily about the intensity of emotional pain from perceived rejection (even from people you know well), while social anxiety is primarily about fear of judgment in social situations. Many people with ADHD experience both.

FocusBox includes task celebration features, progress tracking, and positive reinforcement that help counteract the self-worth impact of RSD. By building a visible record of accomplishments, FocusBox helps provide evidence against the negative self-perception that RSD creates.