New imaging research highlights how altered neural connectivity may drive sound-processing difficulties in children with ADHD
A study of children with ADHD has pinpointed specific brain network disruptions that may explain why many struggle to focus on sound.
The findings add weight to the view that ADHD affects attention in modality-specific ways rather than impairing all sensory processing equally.
Auditory attention shapes how children follow instructions, engage in class, and process language. Understanding the neural underpinnings of these difficulties could improve assessment and guide future interventions for children who present with sound-related attention problems.
Identifying selective deficits
Researchers used the Integrated Visual and Auditory Continuous Performance Test to compare children with ADHD with typically developing peers.
The ADHD group showed poorer sustained auditory attention but no difference in basic auditory control. This suggests intact sound detection but reduced ability to maintain focus on auditory tasks.
Connectivity changes in the auditory cortex
Resting-state fMRI revealed reduced connectivity between key auditory areas of the brain and regions such as the cerebellum and superior temporal gyrus.
The cerebellum’s involvement is notable given its recognised role in cognition and attentional regulation.
Limitations and next steps
The study relied on adult brain templates for child imaging data, used a gender-imbalanced sample, and could not explore ADHD subtypes.
Results, therefore, need replication in larger and more diverse cohorts. Future work may clarify whether similar patterns persist in medicated children or emerge in adolescence.
“Living with ADHD, I've found that understanding how my brain works is key to developing effective support structures and management techniques, allowing me to navigate life and process information as efficiently as possible”, said Micaela Stonestreet, a Hearology® Clinical Audiologist. “A clearer map of the networks involved in auditory processing and ADHD could support better assessment tools and help provide parents and educators with more targeted interventions and support strategies for children.”
The takeaway
The research indicates that auditory attention deficits in ADHD are linked to specific neural connectivity disruptions rather than generalised auditory impairment. Understanding these patterns may lead to more refined diagnostic approaches and interventions that support children who find sound-based tasks particularly challenging.
References
Altered auditory attention and functional connectivity in the auditory cortex of children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder - Research abstract
Auditory and Visual Attention Performance in Children With ADHD: The Attentional Deficiency of ADHD Is Modality Specific - This study explored auditory and visual attention in children with ADHD using the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA)
What to know about ADHD and auditory processing disorder – ADHD and auditory processing disorder links explained
