How Does fMRI Reveal Brain Structure and Function Abnormalities in ADHD?

PostedAugust 19, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD brain development has been extensively studied using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), which provides valuable insights into the structural and functional abnormalities that contribute to ADHD. fMRI scans show which parts of the brain are underactive or dysfunctional in people with ADHD, especially the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, that are involved in attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation. These areas are key to ADHD cognitive issues, and abnormalities in their structure and function can significantly impact behaviour.

fMRI reveals that ADHD brain development often shows reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for executive functions like decision-making and regulating attention. This underactivity can result in ADHD behaviour such as impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. Additionally, fMRI scans of individuals with ADHD often reveal differences in the basal ganglia, which is involved in motor control and reward processing. These structural changes contribute to the hyperactivity and impulsive behaviours commonly associated with ADHD.

Common Symptoms Linked to Brain Abnormalities Revealed by fMRI

The structural and functional differences revealed by brain scans ADHD can help explain several common symptoms of ADHD, including:

Inattention

Children and adults with ADHD often struggle to stay focused on tasks for extended periods. This may involve frequently shifting attention, forgetting instructions, or being easily distracted by irrelevant stimuli.

Impulsivity

Impulsive behaviours, such as interrupting others, making hasty decisions, or acting without considering the consequences, are common. This can lead to social challenges, as individuals may struggle to maintain appropriate behaviour in group settings or conversations.

Hyperactivity

Individuals with ADHD may find it difficult to sit still or remain calm during quiet activities. They might fidget, talk excessively, or display constant restlessness. This can affect their ability to focus on tasks that require sustained concentration.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Brain Structure and Function.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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.