Myth #10:
People with ADHD Cannot Pay attention.
- This is completely false. In fact, ADDers are known to "hyperfocus" on anything which captures their attention, to the point where it is difficult to get their attention. It is true, however, that a higher degree of interest is necessary before the ADDer can pay attention. ADDers do not tune-out or daydream on purpose or to be rude. Some people have likened it to having an on-off switch in the brain. Interest is needed to activate or "turn on" the brain, after which the ADDer can pay attention. If there is no interest, then the brain is "off" and the ADDer is likely to do something to try and get it back on. This can include sensation seeking, daydreaming, or becoming immersed in something the ADDer finds very interesting. It can also include disruptive behavior. This might be nature's way of making sure that some people are always on the lookout for something new and interesting - these are our explorers and discoverers. Ritalin and other stimulants appear to work by artificially stimulating the brain, allowing the ADDer to tolerate a duller setting than they could otherwise function well in (e.g. schools).