Understanding Inattention Patterns in ADHD and Exploring Occupational Therapy Interventions: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Syndrome (ADHD) affects many facets of daily life by posing serious difficulties with self-regulation, organization, and focus. The initial part of the thesis aimed to study about how the brain in ADHD works -the structural brain changes various brain networks, neuro imaging, neuropsychological data . Interventions using occupational therapy (OT) are a viable way to treat attention problems in ADHD patients. This thesis examines, through a thorough analysis of the literature, how well occupational therapy (OT) interventions can improve attention patterns in people with ADHD. The goal of the study is to evaluate several OT strategies for improving attentional functioning, such as sensory integration methods, environmental adjustments, and cognitive-behavioral approaches. Here the INATTENTION Patterns of all age groups are discussed - Infant/toddler, Pre-school /Nursery, Primary school, Secondary school children and ADHD in adults. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) presents significant challenges in maintaining focus, organization, and self-regulation, impacting various aspects of daily life. Occupational therapy (OT) interventions offer promising avenues for addressing attention deficits in individuals with ADHD. This thesis explores the effectiveness of OT interventions in improving attention patterns among individuals with ADHD through a comprehensive review of existing literature. The study aims to analyze various OT strategies, including sensory integration techniques, environmental modifications, and cognitive-behavioral approaches, in enhancing attentional functioning. Additionally, the thesis investigates the underlying mechanisms of instructing children in school and classes for OT interventions and their implications for optimizing attentional outcomes in individuals with ADHD. The thesis also looks into the co-morbidities associated with ADHD and how they might affect people with ADHD who are able to focus. Through synthesizing empirical evidence and theoretical frameworks, this thesis contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of occupational therapy in managing attention deficits in ADHD and provides recommendations for clinical practice and future research directions.