Introduction
Research on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has traditionally focused on deficits and interventions aimed at mitigating deficits, with limited results. However, a strengths-based approach has emerged, highlighting ADHD as a neurodiverse manifestation characterized by unique challenges and abilities. This review aims to explore recent literature on strengths associated with ADHD and propose their application in clinical treatment and strengths-based interventions.
Methods
The review used databases such as PsycInfo, PubMed and Google Scholar, in addition to cross-references of identified articles, using keywords such as “strengths”, “ADHD”, “neurodiversity”, “creativity”, “resilience” and “hyperfocus”. Fifty-four peer-reviewed articles were selected based on relevance criteria. The studies analyzed included qualitative and quantitative designs, with predominantly adult samples. The methodologies included thematic analyses, self-reports and behavioral studies.
Results and Discussions
The findings highlight often underappreciated features of ADHD, including:
Creativity and cognitive flexibility: An increased ability to generate innovative ideas.
Hyperfocus: Prolonged intensity and concentration on activities of interest, promoting high productivity in specific tasks.
Entrepreneurship: Proactive tendencies and willingness to take calculated risks.
Other strengths include high energy, enhanced sensitivity in sensory processing, empathy, resilience, and spontaneity.
These characteristics, when appropriately explored, can improve well-being and occupational and social performance. The data corroborate that interventions that emphasize the identification and amplification of individual strengths can overcome limitations of traditional deficit-focused approaches.
Clinical Implications
It is recommended that neurodiversity-oriented psychoeducation be adopted, reframing the view of ADHD as a neurological difference rather than a disability. Interventions should be personalized, emphasizing specific strengths while creating an environment optimized for success.
Conclusions
A strengths-based approach has the potential to significantly improve outcomes for individuals with ADHD. Future research should quantitatively explore these characteristics, deepening our understanding of how to integrate these strengths into clinical management.
Reference :
Sonuga-Barke, EJS et al. (2023). Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 64(10).
Sedgwick, JA et al. (2019). ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders, 11(3).
