Do Brain Imaging Patterns Vary Across Cultures or Ethnicities?

PostedOctober 7, 2025

UpdatedOctober 7, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD imaging cultural differences have become an important area of study as research suggests that brain imaging patterns in ADHD may differ across various ethnicities and cultures. While ADHD presents similarly in many individuals globally, the way it manifests in the brain could show some variability depending on genetic, environmental, and cultural factors. Cross-cultural studies have started to explore these differences, revealing how brain structures and activity patterns in individuals with ADHD might vary across diverse populations.

Differences in brain imaging patterns across cultures can be influenced by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, societal expectations, and even how ADHD symptoms are perceived. For example, fMRI and structural MRI scans may show different activation patterns in the prefrontal cortex or basal ganglia in children with ADHD from different ethnic backgrounds. These patterns could be reflective of distinct ways ADHD symptoms are expressed or diagnosed in different cultures. Studies have also suggested that social factors, including the stigma attached to ADHD in certain cultures, may affect how symptoms are expressed and reported.

How It Helps

Symptoms and Cultural Context

For example, hyperactivity may be more readily recognised and diagnosed in cultures that place a high value on disciplined behaviour, while inattention might be less noticeable or dismissed in environments where creativity and independence are emphasised.

Treatment Adaptation

Understanding cultural differences in ADHD brain imaging helps tailor treatments more effectively. It ensures that medication or CBT can be adjusted to align with cultural norms, leading to better treatment outcomes.

For more insights into ADHD cultural differences and personalised treatment, visit providers like ADHD Certify for expert consultations.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD imaging cultural differences.

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

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.