ADHD affects millions globally, often making daily life and work challenging. Time blindness, impulsivity, and struggles with completing tasks are all hurdles that cannot be quickly overcome with a simple “hack”. However, new research suggests there’s another side to the condition. We break down a study examining the positive traits of ADHDers.

ADHDers May Share Common “Positive” Traits

New research from the University of Bath examined the traits of 200 adults diagnosed with ADHD and 200 adults without ADHD. Each of the participants was asked how strongly they identified with 25 positive traits, including creativity, humour, spontaneity and hyperfocus.

The study, which was published in Psychological Medicine, found that ADHD adults were more likely to identify with several of the positive traits than their neurotypical counterparts.

The traits common in ADHDers included:

• Hyperfocus. That is, the ability to focus on one task that interests them for hours at a time, or get into a “flow” state.

• Humour. Let’s not forget that famous comedians, such as Trevor Noah, have ADHD.

• Creativity. While this will be different for each person, it could mean writing, dancing, the ability to paint, starting a side business, and so much more.

• Spontaneity. ADHD people often struggle with impulsivity, but this also means that they can be spontaneous when the moment strikes them.

• Intuitiveness. That may mean “sensing” when a situation is not right for them, or guessing the end of a film thanks to pattern recognition.
  

Media surrounding ADHD often emphasises what people lack. However, this study challenges this deficit-focused approach, instead looking at the positive attributes ADHDers often share. The ADHD group consistently recognised these characteristics as a positive part of themselves.

Previous studies only asked people with ADHD about their strengths and didn’t have a neurotypical control group. That left questions about whether these traits actually related to ADHD or whether everyone would say they had them equally. The results suggest that ADHDers not only agree on their positive characteristics, but are highly in-tune with them.

The Power of Seeing Your Strengths

Many ADHD people struggle with low self-esteem. They may have grown up being told that they were stupid, lazy, or simply not good enough. Those words can have a lasting effect on a person’s confidence as they move into their adult lives.

Studies like this one offer a fresh perspective on ADHDers. The study authors noted that by emphasising a person’s positive traits and actively using them, it can lead to a happier, healthier, and less stressed life. Many ADHD people have been calling for strengths-based approaches for years, and yet the general guidance and support has lagged behind.

While the study doesn’t ignore the very real challenges that ADHDers face on a daily basis, it switches the narrative. Understanding that ADHD offers both positive and negative traits is fundamental when we talk about neuroinclusivity and equality in general.

Celebrating Your ADHD Traits

If there’s one takeaway from this research, it’s that common ADHD traits can be positive and worth celebrating. Should you see these characteristics in yourself, acknowledging them and being proud of them can boost your self-esteem and help you hone your innate skills.

Whether you’re naturally creative, love being spontaneous, or can have a whole room laughing in seconds, those are beautifully positive characteristics. Consider which of the above traits resonates the most with you and pinpoint times when you use them on a daily basis.

Waiting for your diagnosis? At Autism Services Group, we offer a straightforward route to your ADHD assessment. We know that this is a highly personal journey, and our team will support you every step of the way.