How are Creativity and ADHD Connected?

ADHD is defined as a developmental disorder affecting proper usage of executive functions. One can think of executive functions as the brain’s “command center,” controlling focus, organization, memory, action, and effort. It is known as a neurological disorder, marked by distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. 

Although ADHD may have negative consequences for academic achievement, there may be a legitimate connection between ADHD and creative thinking.

Thinking Creatively

The definition of creativity is the use of the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work. The two main aspects of creative thinking are divergent thinking, and conceptual expansion.

What is Divergent Thinking?

Divergent thinking can be defined as the ability to think of many ideas from a single starting point.  It is a lateral process by definition. Once you sprout one idea you keep on coming with new ideas based on the original one.

Current research suggests that individuals with ADHD are exceptionally good at divergent thinking tasks. This can apply to  inventing creative new uses for everyday items. One has the original intended purpose for an item and creates a new idea for a new purpose of that same item.  An example of divergent thinking is how to handle a broken computer. One may simply think it is broken and believe one must get a new one. On the other hand, divergent thinking may lead to new solutions such as fixing specific parts, or selling laptop parts in order to make a new computer more affordable.

What is Conceptual Expansion?

Prior knowledge can be an obstacle to creativity. When we look to a prior model for inspiration, we may actually become stuck. This is a problem in creativity because as opposed to looking for a plethora of methods one is basing their creativity from other successful methods.

The ability to overcome recently presented information is therefore essential to creative thinking. Evidence suggests that ADHD may offer some benefits from confronting this problem.

The Takeaway

It is important to realize that although ADHD may have a connection to creativity, that doesn’t negate the fact that ADHD does create difficulties for individuals in many contexts that require focused, sustained attention—such as school. One should still see a specialist to deal with ADHD in order to create a concrete plan to structure their lives for success that will harness their creative side to it’s fullest potential.