How Do Both Neurotransmitters Influence Reward Deficiency in ADHD? 

One of the most consistent neurobiological findings in ADHD is the presence of reward deficiency, a reduced sensitivity to reinforcement that makes it harder to stay motivated without immediate gratification. This dysfunction is driven by abnormalities in two key neurotransmitters: dopamine and norepinephrine, which both play vital roles in the brain’s reward pathway. 

Dopamine and the Striatum 

Dopamine is the main chemical involved in the brain’s reinforcement system, particularly within the striatum, a region responsible for processing rewards and guiding goal-directed behaviour. In ADHD, low dopamine activity in the striatum disrupts how rewards are perceived and valued. This makes delayed or abstract rewards, like finishing homework for long-term academic success, feel unmotivating or even meaningless. As a result, individuals with ADHD often struggle to begin or sustain effort on tasks that do not offer instant gratification. 

Norepinephrine and Reward Anticipation 

While dopamine handles the “wanting” aspect of rewards, norepinephrine supports alertness, task engagement, and the mental effort needed to pursue those rewards. When norepinephrine is deficient, it becomes harder to maintain focus and motivation, even when a task is potentially rewarding. This leads to a sense of mental fatigue or boredom, further fuelling the cycle of reward deficiency. 

Together, deficits in dopamine and norepinephrine disrupt how individuals with ADHD anticipate, process, and respond to rewards, explaining why reinforcement often falls flat without immediate payoff. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to learn how addressing reward pathway dysfunction can improve motivation in ADHD.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Dopamine and norepinephrine systems.

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.