Explaining ADHD Behaviours to Those Who Don’t Understand

Discover tips, treatment options, and support strategies from the Finding Focus Care Team

Last Update: February 26th, 2025 | Estimated Read Time: 6 min

Introduction

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly misunderstood neurodevelopmental disorders. While awareness of ADHD has increased in recent years, myths and misconceptions still persist. Those with ADHD often face frustration when trying to explain their behaviours to people who do not understand the condition. Friends, family, teachers, and employers may misinterpret these behaviours as laziness, carelessness, or a lack of discipline, which can lead to conflicts and emotional distress.

This article aims to bridge the gap between those with ADHD and those who struggle to understand it. By exploring the science behind ADHD behaviours, breaking down common misconceptions, and providing practical strategies for communication, this guide will help foster empathy and create more supportive environments.

Understanding ADHD: Beyond the Stereotypes

ADHD is not simply an inability to focus or excessive energy. It is a complex neurological condition that affects executive function, emotional regulation, and self-control. The brain of a person with ADHD functions differently, particularly in areas related to attention, impulse control, and motivation. These differences are not a matter of choice or personality but rather the result of neurobiological factors.

Key Features of ADHD

1. Inattention

People with ADHD often struggle with maintaining focus, but not necessarily in all situations. Their ability to concentrate can vary based on interest, stimulation, and external distractions. Common signs of inattention include:

• Easily Distracted: External stimuli or intrusive thoughts can derail focus, leading to unfinished tasks or forgetfulness.
• Difficulty Organizing Tasks: Managing priorities and following multi-step directions can be challenging (Brown, 2021).
• Forgetfulness: Forgetting appointments, deadlines, or daily responsibilities is common, but not due to a lack of effort.

2. Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity does not always manifest as physical restlessness. Some individuals, particularly adults, experience it more as an internal sensation of being on edge. Symptoms include:

• Fidgeting and Inability to Stay Still: Excessive movement, tapping, or shifting positions.
• Excessive Talking: Engaging in rapid speech or interrupting conversations unintentionally (Kofler et al., 2020).
• Preference for High-Stimulation Environments: Thriving in fast-paced settings but struggling with passive activities.

3. Impulsivity

Impulsivity in ADHD affects decision-making, emotional regulation, and social interactions. Common signs include:

• Blurting Out Thoughts: Speaking before thinking, interrupting conversations, or oversharing.
• Taking Risks Without Considering Consequences: Acting on impulse, which can sometimes lead to reckless behaviours.
• Emotional Dysregulation: Intense reactions to situations, difficulty processing emotions in real time (Shaw et al., 2014).

The Psychological and Neurological Basis of ADHD

ADHD is not a behavioural choice; it is linked to brain structure and function. Studies show that individuals with ADHD have differences in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive functions like planning, self-control, and working memory (Faraone et al., 2021). Neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine also play a significant role in ADHD, affecting motivation, attention, and impulse control.

• Executive Function Deficits: ADHD affects the brain's ability to regulate actions, emotions, and attention (Willcutt et al., 2012).
• Reward System Dysregulation: People with ADHD often have lower dopamine levels, which can lead to difficulty with delayed gratification and task persistence.
• Working Memory Challenges: Difficulty retaining and manipulating information, affecting decision-making and organization (Castellanos & Proal, 2012).

Understanding these cognitive differences helps reframe ADHD behaviours as symptoms of a neurological condition rather than character flaws.

Common Misunderstandings and How to Address Them

Many misunderstandings about ADHD arise from a lack of knowledge. Below are some common myths and facts to help clarify misconceptions.

1. "People with ADHD just need more discipline."

Reality: ADHD is not a discipline issue. While structure and consistency help, the brain's wiring makes impulse control and focus inherently challenging. A lack of discipline does not cause ADHD behaviours.

2. "If they can focus on video games, they should be able to focus on school or work."

Reality: ADHD does not mean a person cannot focus; rather, they struggle with regulating attention. High-stimulation activities (like video games) provide instant feedback and dopamine, making them easier to engage with than low-stimulation tasks (Hupfeld et al., 2019).

3. "Medication is just an excuse."

Reality: ADHD medications, such as stimulants, are proven to help regulate brain function, improving attention and impulse control. They are not a shortcut but a necessary treatment for many individuals (Biederman & Spencer, 2019).

Conclusion

Misunderstanding ADHD can lead to frustration, strained relationships, and unnecessary stigma. By educating ourselves and others, we can shift perspectives from blame to understanding. ADHD is not a choice, but compassion, patience, and proper support can make a world of difference.

Explaining ADHD behaviours effectively helps build empathy and fosters stronger connections between individuals with ADHD and their families, friends, and colleagues. The more we understand, the better we can create an inclusive and supportive world for everyone.

Finding Focus Care Team

We are a group of nurse practitioners, continuous care specialists, creators, and writers, all committed to excellence in patient care and expertise in ADHD. We share content that illuminates aspects of ADHD and broader health care topics. Each article is medically verified and approved by the Finding Focus Care Team. You can contact us at Finding Focus Support if you have any questions!

References

Biederman, J., & Spencer, T. J. (2019). "Stimulant Therapy in ADHD: Long-Term Effects and Benefits." Journal of Psychiatric Research, 109, 56-67. Link

Faraone, S. V., et al. (2021). "The World Federation of ADHD International Consensus Statement: Evidence-Based Approaches to Understanding and Managing ADHD." Neuroscience & Biobehavioural Reviews, 128, 218-230. Link

Shaw, P., et al. (2014). "Neurodevelopmental Trajectories of the Human Cerebral Cortex in ADHD." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 111(49), 17767-17772. Link

Tiraboschi, G. A., West, G. L., Boers, E., Bohbot, V. D., & Fitzpatrick, C. (2022). Associations Between Video Game Engagement and ADHD Symptoms in Early Adolescence. Journal of attention disorders, 26(10), 1369–1378. Link