ADHD and Executive Function
Most species of animals do not have the capability of planning for the future. They are unable to “self talk”. They react on impulse and are not able to evaluate their past actions rationally. Humans however do have this capability. It is called “executive function” and it gives us the option of modulating our behaviour. No single part of the human brain is solely in charge of this modulation, however it does appear that our frontal and prefrontal lobes function as our “CEO”.
One of the most important functions of this part of our brain is to “inhibit” (put on the brakes). Successful execution of a plan largely involves putting brakes on distracting activities. These brakes – courtesy of our inhibitory centers – allow us the luxury of TIME during which we can consider our options before reacting.
People with ADHD have a problem with INHIBITION (putting on the brakes)
- unable to adequately inhibit distraction
- unable to inhibit impulsive reactions
- unable to inhibit physically reacting to stimuli
- unable to inhibit their behaviour long enough for other executive functions to operate