Executive Function and ADHD

What exactly are ‘executive functions’? What is the relationship between ADHD and executive functions? Is there any difference? Why is it important to understand executive function strengths and weaknesses and why do you look at them when assessing for ADHD?

As you can probably figure out by the introduction, there is a very strong relationship between ADHD and executive functions. During assessment, gathering information on executive functions helps us better understand a child’s individual presentation of ADHD, and leads to direct intervention recommendations—which means we can create a plan that leads to strategies you can start using that same day!

Before we get into the relationship between the two, here is a brief overview of the constructs: ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) is a diagnostic label that is given by a psychologist or medical doctor after assessment that refers to individuals who have a certain type of neurodivergent brain. It is classified as a “disorder”, but the more we investigate, research, and learn about ADHD, the more we understand that it’s best understood as a brain “difference” not disorder, with its own particular cognitive strengths and weaknesses compared to a neurotypical brain. ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. In fact, there are three different classifications: people can meet the criteria for the inattentive-type presentation, where the symptoms show up primarily in attention differences and losing focus; people can meet the criteria for the hyperactive/impulsive-type presentation, where the symptoms show up primarily in difficulties with impulsivity, difficulties sitting still, and excessive movement; and, some people meet criteria for both and are diagnosed with the combined-type presentation (which is actually the majority of people with ADHD!)

The executive functions are brain-based abilities. They help people control or manage their behaviors, feelings, and thoughts. Specific executive functions include controlling impulses, managing emotions, adapting to change easily, paying attention, concentrating, and managing information in memory. Much like an air traffic control system at an airport helps planes on different runways land and take off safely, executive function skills help our brains prioritize tasks, filter distractions, and control impulses.

People diagnosed with ADHD almost always have some level of executive function weakness. This is one way their brain is developing differently. But not every person with ADHD has the same executive function strengths and weaknesses, and understanding the executive function profile can be the key to unlocking the strategies that really help!

We can’t change whether or not someone has ADHD, remember it’s a brain-based difference, or neurotype, but we can build executive function skills to support an ADHD brain to thrive in our neurotypical world! Understanding your child’s executive function profile can provide a road map of recommendations that are specific to your child’s brain and can be applied immediately at home or school to better support them.

By Myriah Mulvogue, M.A., R.Psych.