The ADHD Brain vs the Neurotypical Brain Differences

Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) commonly referred to as ADD, is the most prominent childhood neurodevelopmental condition that is characterized by behavioral symptoms like being impulsive, short attention span, lack of attention and hyperactivity.

Most ADHD conditions develop early on in children and sometimes can continue on into adolescence and to adulthood. This condition which presents symptoms of short attention span, impulsivity, fidgety, and being easily distracted can be difficult to diagnose and understand.

The differences of an ADHD brain and a neurotypical one has to do with structure, functioning and brain development. The key to better treatments of the behavior patterns and symptoms of those with ADHD come with an understanding of the differences.

The Main Differences

There are some key differences in terms of structure, function and brain development of an ADHD brain.

Those with ADHD have certain areas of the brain that mature more slowly and produce less activity than a neurotypical brain. Some of these differences which are more noticeable in childhood can carry over into adulthood or may change as a child grows.

The rate and amount of change related to brain size, brain network and it’s neurotransmitters will differ in each individual.

Research shows that child brain development involves:

  • growth and organization of neuronal networks for optimal communication

  • maximizing neuronal informational exchange through myelin development

  • ridding of inefficient neuronal circuits through pruning or reorganization

Structure

The differences in an ADHD brain and a neurotypical one is seen in the brain areas which relate to the ADHD symptoms.

A 2007 publication in the National Institute of Health, states that ADHD children had a delayed brain maturation in the frontal cortex responsible for, cognition , planning, attention and impulsivity. While exhibiting an accelerated maturation in the motor cortex where symptoms of restlessness reside.

The frontal lobe controls planning, learning, critical thinking, attention, impulse control and social behavior. The slower development in this region of the brain may account for the dysregulation and delayed maturity related to these cognitive skills.

A 2017 study suggests that ADHD children have smaller volumes of brain cells in those regions responsible for the most problematic symptoms associated with ADHD. Although the brains of ADHD children are smaller it doesn’t reflect to their overall intelligence. It may be that it takes longer to develop fully in those areas of the brain.

The lack of volume of brain tissue is found in the amygdala and hippocampus, which affect emotional regulation, motivation and memory.

The areas of the prefrontal and premotor cortex (that controls attention and motor activity) which make up the frontal cortex, are seen to have less neuronal activity.

Once an ADHD diagnosis is determined by a health professional or doctor, treatment options can be suggested which usually include a combination of medication, therapy and neurofeedback.

Function

Research shows that functioning of an ADHD brain differs in brain networks called functioning connectivity. This phenomena has been seen using imaging tools such as MRIs and X-rays that can reveal subtle changes and abnormalities of structure and function in people with neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD. There are imbalances in both structural and functional connectivity which result in modified behaviors with an ADHD brain.

Research also shows that some parts of the brain are hyper aroused while others under perform or are hypoactive. Suggesting the brains capacity to appropriately manage a healthy and normal response to a variety of situational stimuli is dysregulated.

A 2019 study of adults with ADHD, used MRIs to observe the relationship of neuronal circuitry and functional connectivity relating to hyperactivity and restlessness to suggest dysfunction of certain brain networks are responsible for the symptoms of ADHD.

Common executive functioning skills affected by ADHD:

  • attention

  • focus

  • impulsivity

  • concentration

  • learning from mistakes

  • organization

  • planning

  • memory

  • decision making

  • social interaction skills

  • hyperactivity

  • distractions

Treatments

Treatment options should only be considered after a proper ADHD diagnosis has been made by a doctor. In these cases it may be recommended that medication be taken. Most medications for the treatment of ADHD are directed towards treating the hyper component of the condition. The aim is to calm and sedate the person so they can focus better.

Another form of treatment of ADHD which has had much success is neurofeedback therapy. This type of therapy works to re-educate the nervous system using an EEG to influence the brain waves to activate the neural pathways responsible for the behavioral symptoms related to ADHD.

Neurofeedback looks at brain waves as being upstream to behaviors. So, that by altering the brain wave oscillations, behaviors are changed for the better.

The ADHD brain is different in structure, function and development as compared to a neurotypical brain. Many people with ADHD can lead very good, happy and productive lives once they are given the proper treatment. Often times, childhood ADHD can even drastically reduce as one ages so very little or no medication is needed. Most of the time some kind of treatment is recommended, especially early on in life.

Although, the ADHD brain differs in size, shape and functional connectivity, which leads to certain brain regions producing too little or too much of an appropriate response, isn’t a reflection of intelligence. ADHD people are typically very bright and demonstrate many skills. With the proper treatment of medication or neurofeedback therapy, an ADHD individual can improve academic and job performance, communication skills as well as build better long lasting relationships.

-A Balanced Brain is a Focused Brain-

Jon Stuart