Communication and adhd: Navigating attention, Inclusivity, and Emotional Intelligence
By Michele Morrissey, M.A., CCC-SLP
Attention is complex and goes beyond the simple notion of focus. Understanding different types of attention supports self-awareness not just for those with ADHD but for all communicators. In fact, you do not need to have a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety, or depression to experience less-than-optimal attention skills. Stress, sleep deprivation, long COVID, and dips in glucose levels or hunger can all impact how we attend and, therefore, how effectively we communicate.
Types of Attention and Impact on Communication:
1. Focused Attention:
Impact on Communication: Focused attention is concentrating on one specific stimulus. For someone with impaired attention, maintaining focus during conversations can be challenging, especially in environments with lots of distractions. This might lead to missing key details or losing track of the conversation. Someone may also present with decreased alertness if coping with sensations aligned with being overwhelmed.
Example: In a meeting, an individual with impaired attention might struggle to stay engaged when a colleague is discussing complex or detailed information, especially if the room is noisy or visually stimulating.
2. Sustained Attention:
Impact on Communication: Sustained attention refers to maintaining focus over extended periods. People with impaired attention might struggle to stay attentive during more extended discussions or tasks.
Example: During a lengthy workshop or presentation, a person with impaired attention may need help following the entire session without periods of inattention, which might result in not fully grasping the subject matter or missing instructions.
3. Selective Attention:
Impact on Communication: Selective attention is the capacity to focus on relevant stimuli while ignoring distractions. Its function is more executive than focused attention. For individuals with impaired attention, filtering out irrelevant sounds or sights can be particularly tough, affecting their ability to participate effectively in conversations.
Example: In a busy coffee shop, someone with impaired attention may find it hard to concentrate on a conversation with a friend due to background noise, such as the sound of the espresso machine or other patrons talking. For some, all auditory input may sound equally loud.
4. Alternating Attention:
Impact on Communication: Alternating attention involves switching focus between tasks. People with impaired attention may experience challenges quickly and efficiently, shifting their attention, and leading to problems in dynamic conversation settings where topics change rapidly.
Example: In a fast-paced team meeting where the discussion frequently jumps between different project updates, an individual with impaired attention might need help to keep up with the shifts, possibly asking for repeated information or responding inappropriately to earlier topics.
5. Divided Attention:
Impact on Communication: Divided attention refers to simultaneously processing two or more demands. Individuals with impaired attention might find it particularly challenging to multitask effectively, impacting conversations that require listening while taking notes or thinking about a response. There has been much debate about multitasking; however, May and Elder (2018) stated, “The research indicates that media multitasking interferes with attention and working memory, negatively affecting GPA, test performance, recall, reading comprehension, note-taking, self-regulation, and efficiency.”
Example: If asked to listen to a lecture while also filling out a related questionnaire, a person with impaired attention might focus more on one task at the expense of the other, possibly leading to incomplete notes or unanswered questions.
Contrary to popular belief, neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD, do not struggle with all forms of attention under all circumstances. Understanding and leveraging each individual’s strengths and challenges is crucial for fostering an inclusive and efficient workplace.
Reflection Questions for Inclusive and Emotionally Intelligent Communication:
How do I accommodate sustained attention in my conversations or presentations?
Am I mindful of the environment and its potential impact on focused attention during interactions?
How do I ensure clarity and focus in dynamic conversations to support alternating attention?
Do I practice emotional intelligence by offering grace and patience when others struggle with maintaining attention?
How do I incorporate strategies to manage engagement across all levels of attention in my communication?
Would you like support from Michele Morrissey or one of our other presentation skills experts to help elevate your ability to focus when listening, hold attention when speaking, become a more emotionally intelligent communicator, and foster an inclusive work environment? Please book a call with us to discuss your goals further, as well as group training options and 1-1 coaching options to achieve them.
References:
Arbula, S., Pisanu, E., Bellavita, G., Menichelli, A., Lunardelli, A., Furlanis, G., Manganotti, P., Cappa, S., & Rumiati, R. (2024). Insights into attention and memory difficulties in post-COVID syndrome using standardized neuropsychological tests and experimental cognitive tasks. Scientific Reports, 14(4405). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-4405-8
Baird J, Stevenson JC, Williams DC. The evolution of ADHD: a disorder of communication? Q Rev Biol. 2000 Mar;75(1):17-35. doi: 10.1086/393256. PMID: 10721532
Harvard Health Blog. (n.d.). 5 common problems that can mimic ADHD. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/5-common-problems-that-can-mimic-adhd
May, K. E., & Elder, A. D. (2018). Efficient, helpful, or distracting? A literature review of media multitasking in relation to academic performance. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, p. 15, Article 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-018-0096-z
Porter, E. (2021, August 9). Conditions that mimic ADHD. Healthline. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/conditions-that-mimic-adhd.
