In 1993, Thom Hartmann published his first book about ADHD, in which he hypothesized that the behavioral traits we call ADHD might have had a biological advantage for our ancestors. His theory was that in centuries past, people with this ability to hyperfocus on the environment and respond instantaneously and reflexively to stimuli would have had an advantage in hunting societies. They would be more likely to survive, to attract a mate, and to provide for their offspring. Thus, these traits would be passed on from one generation to the next in hunting societies.
In fact, recent genetic studies from the University of California, Irving, have supported Hartmann’s hypothesis. In cultures which have been farming oriented for centuries, like Southeast Asia, the primary gene variation associated with ADHD does not exist in those populations. However, cultures in the western hemisphere which have been more hunting oriented have a much higher incidence of this gene.
Unfortunately for people with ADHD, American schools typically teach the way that farmers think: organize, make a plan, follow the plan, do not rush the plan, complete the plan as scheduled, etc. ADHD “hunters” mainly want to get involved and get it done, then move on. Neither is right or wrong, they are just different; but different enough that ADHD people may have a very difficult time in a primarily non-ADHD oriented world.
This doesn’t mean that ADHD doesn’t cause difficulties for the person with ADHD. It often caused problems in school for the people in the above list. It causes problems in any situation where patience is more important than hyperfocusing and reflexive responses. This, combined with the social difficulties of ADHD and the lack of understanding from the 90-95% of the population who doesn’t think this way, can make living with ADHD a challenge every day.
ADHD is a genetic difference that isn’t all bad. It can be a distinct advantage when an ADHD person is intensely focused on the right thing at the right time.
Children and adults with ADHD are often creative and energetic. They can also be very successful and productive when they learn to use their gifts and talents to address their problems in a positive way. At The Attention Center, we help our clients develop whole-life skills to increase self-sufficiency and decrease dependence on our services.
Hear some good news about living with ADHD.
Take a look at Thom Hartmann's list of ADHD traits as a difference rather than a disorder.
Find out how The Attention Center is different in its approach to treating ADHD.
Einstein's office: evidence that
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