

Does ADHD really make programming harder? ft. Chris Ferdinandi | S2 E04
20 snips Feb 3, 2025
Chris Ferdinandi, a frontend developer and educator behind ADHD for the Win, sheds light on the unique challenges faced by programmers with ADHD. He discusses why so many in tech have ADHD, and how modern distractions impact attention spans. Chris emphasizes the importance of gamification in learning, revealing its potential to enhance engagement through immediate feedback. The conversation also explores effective learning strategies tailored for ADHD, making coding more accessible and enjoyable for those who struggle with traditional approaches.
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ADHD and Developers
- ADHD might be overrepresented in the developer community.
- Coding's gamified nature and immediate feedback appeal to ADHD brains.
Understanding ADHD
- ADHD is a poorly named condition, not a deficit of attention but difficulty regulating it.
- ADHD brains operate in two modes: scattered attention or hyperfocus on one thing.
ADHD Underdiagnosis
- ADHD is likely underdiagnosed, especially in women and girls.
- Many ADHD traits were not recognized in the past, and societal views contributed to underdiagnosis.