Altered somatosensory processing in adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Human Sensory Processing

Background:

• Tactile sensitivity and sensory overload are frequently reported in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) but lack robust empirical validation, especially in adults.
• Existing research primarily focuses on children, leaving a gap in understanding these sensory experiences in adult ADHD populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between tactile sensitivity, sensory integration, and ADHD symptomatology in adults.
• To compare empirical and self-reported tactile sensitivity in adults with ADHD versus neurotypical controls.
• To determine if tactile sensitivity and integration are more prevalent in ADHD and correlate with symptom severity.

Main Methods:

• Utilized somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) measurements in 27 adults with ADHD and 24 controls under various tactile stimulation conditions.
• Administered questionnaires on tactile sensitivity and ADHD symptoms.
• Employed the Qb-test for an objective assessment of ADHD symptom severity.

Main Results:

• Adults with ADHD reported higher tactile sensitivity and ADHD symptom severity compared to controls, with significant correlations between these measures.
• ADHD participants exhibited a lower threshold for electrical nerve stimulation and reduced cortical SEP amplitudes under tactile load.
• The observed reductions in SEP amplitudes were correlated with ADHD symptom severity.

Conclusions:

• A direct link exists between ADHD symptomatology and tactile sensitivity, supported by both subjective reports and objective neurophysiological measures.
• Evidence suggests tactile sensory overload in ADHD, potentially associated with inattentive symptoms.
• Clinicians should consider tactile sensitivity and sensory overload as significant factors impacting the quality of life and functioning in individuals with ADHD.