ADHD coach Jeff Copper discusses how ADHD is more of a thinking impairment than a deficit of attention. He breaks down different aspects of thinking and emphasizes the importance of understanding executive functions. The podcast explores challenges with concentration, time management, problem-solving, and insights on procrastination in individuals with ADHD.
ADHD is an executive functioning impairment, not just an attention deficit, requiring accommodations for effective problem-solving.
Individuals with ADHD struggle with problem-solving tasks due to cognitive impairments, necessitating externalized thinking and collaborative planning for success.
Deep dives
Understanding ADHD as an Executive Function Impairment
ADHD is viewed as an executive function impairment by Dr. Barkley, focusing on self-regulation and thinking inside one's head. This concept highlights the challenge individuals with ADHD face in problem-solving internally towards a specific goal. The episode emphasizes the importance of defining executive functions, particularly self-regulation, as a foundational tool for problem-solving.
Distinguishing Types of Thinking in ADHD
The podcast delves into different types of thinking, clarifying that when discussing thinking in the context of ADHD, it pertains to problem-solving towards a goal, not daydreaming, emoting, or simply learning. It highlights that problem-solving poses a significant challenge for individuals with ADHD, requiring accommodations and externalized thinking to aid in effective decision-making and problem-solving.
Complexity of Problem-Solving and Accommodations
Problem-solving, especially in tasks like decluttering, requires substantial cognitive effort and decision-making. The episode explains the struggles individuals with ADHD face in problem-solving due to cognitive impairments. It underscores the need for accommodations, externalizing thinking, and collaborative planning to overcome the challenges associated with problem-solving difficulties.
Addressing Ambiguity, Procrastination, and Accommodations
The podcast explores the correlation between ambiguity, procrastination, and ADHD, emphasizing that individuals with ADHD struggle with problem-solving tasks due to cognitive impairments. It suggests that clarity and motivation are deeply connected, and the key to addressing procrastination lies in removing ambiguity through externalized thinking and accommodations. By focusing on making thinking easier and externalizing problem-solving processes, individuals with ADHD can enhance their productivity and task completion.
Got ADHD? The title says deficit of attention. But it's actually an executive functioning impairment. Impairments are such things that need accommodation. When you think about executive functions, much of the challenge of ADHD comes down to thinking. In this episode of Attention Talk Radio, ADHD and attention coach Jeff Copper (https://digcoaching.com) discusses ADHD as a thinking impairment. Sometimes we are victims to our language. All too often, we generalize. Jeff tries to break down different aspects of thinking so that we can begin to understand what thinking is, how ADHD is more of a thinking impairment, and the mindset necessary to move forward.
Attention Talk Radio is the leading site for self-help Internet radio shows focusing on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and attention deficit disorder, including managing symptoms of ADHD in adults with ADD or adults who have children with ADHD. Attention Talk Radio, hosted by Jeff Copper, attention and ADHD coach, is designed to help adults (particularly those diagnosed with or impacted by attention deficit disorder or its symptoms) in life or business who are stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated to help them get unstuck and moving forward by opening their minds to pay attention to what works. To learn more about attention and ADHD coach Jeff Copper, go to https://digcoaching.com.
Our thanks to the sponsors of this show: CHADD.org, ADDCA.com, ImpactParents.com, and TimeTimer.com
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