Are There Shared Brain Structures in Autism and ADHD?

PostedSeptember 17, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 17, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Shared brain structures in autism and ADHD are a topic of growing interest among neuroscientists, as it may reveal how the two conditions overlap at a neurological level. Both autism and ADHD involve distinct neurodevelopmental differences, but recent research has shown that there are shared brain structures and overlapping neuroanatomy in both conditions. These commonalities may help explain the cognitive and behavioural traits that individuals with autism and ADHD brains often share, including difficulties with attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation.

Studies using brain imaging techniques have revealed that both autism and ADHD involve differences in the functioning and structure of key brain areas. These brain regions, responsible for attention, executive functioning, and social processing, are often affected in similar ways in both conditions. The neuroanatomy overlap between autism and ADHD helps to explain why individuals with both conditions, or AuDHD, can experience challenges in managing attention, regulating emotions, and navigating social situations.

How Shared Brain Structures Contribute to Autism and ADHD

Shared brain structures, particularly in areas linked to attention and social behaviour, contribute to overlaps between autism and ADHD.

Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex, responsible for executive functions like decision-making, impulse control, and working memory, is often underactive or structurally different in both autism and ADHD. This overlap contributes to difficulties in planning, organisation, and focus, which are common traits of both conditions.

Basal Ganglia

Both autism and ADHD show abnormalities in the basal ganglia, a region that helps control movement and regulate behaviours. These differences are thought to contribute to motor control issues, impulsivity, and difficulties with social behaviour regulation, which are often observed in both conditions.

Understanding the shared brain structures of autism and ADHD can help us better comprehend the neurological basis of both conditions and how they overlap. This knowledge is key for developing more effective treatment strategies for individuals with autism ADHD brains. Providers like ADHD Certify can offer tailored support to help manage the unique challenges associated with these neurodevelopmental conditions.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.