Chapter 8 - Attentional Problems in Adults

Abstract

Many unregulated adults experience attentional and executive functioning problems and are unable to organize the objects in their life or to keep track of important things in their life including schedules. They often struggle with getting started, remaining motivated, and sequencing steps to finish basic tasks. This chapter focuses on adults with problems of inattention, procrastination, and poor executive functioning resulting in problems of time management, spatial organization, decision making, and problem solving. The neurobiological basis for attention and executive functioning is described. Practical information is provided about the impact of different types of stimuli on attention. The importance of selective attention and motivation and persistence is described. A checklist is provided to assist in diagnosing the different types of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults. Strategies for helping adults with poor attention, impulsivity, and disorganization are presented that address the underlying problems that contribute to attention deficit, emphasizing the use of cognitive–behavioral and sensory integration approaches. Emphasis is placed on learning how to modulate arousal and sensory registration, to sustain attention, and to develop self-control, organization, and mastery in a variety of social, work, and everyday activities. Case examples of several adults illustrate the treatment model, one of which focuses on the impact on the person’s family life, and the other case describes how ADHD affects the person’s view of self.