What role do brain imaging studies play in understanding hyperactivity in ADHD?

PostedAugust 22, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

ADHD brain imaging has offered valuable insights into how neurobiology contributes to hyperactivity and attention difficulties. By using advanced brain scans, researchers and clinicians can observe structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD, providing insight into the underlying causes of these symptoms.

These neuroimaging ADHD studies show that certain regions such as the prefrontal cortex, which controls executive function, and the basal ganglia, which regulates movement, often develop differently in people with ADHD. While these insights are not used as stand-alone diagnostic tools yet, they enhance our understanding of the disorder and could one day lead to more targeted therapies.

What Brain Imaging Reveals

Here are some key findings from ADHD brain imaging studies and how they inform treatment approaches:

Delayed Brain Maturation

Scans often reveal that the brain regions responsible for attention and self-control develop more slowly in children with ADHD. This understanding helps clinicians suggest behavioural therapies to strengthen these skills as the brain continues to mature.

Reduced Activity in Prefrontal Cortex

This appears to be lower activation in regions responsible for planning and impulse control. Medications like stimulants can increase activity in these areas, improving focus and behaviour.

Overactive Default Mode Network (DMN)

This network, active during rest and daydreaming, seems to interfere with task focus in ADHD brains. Mindfulness and CBT can help individuals manage internal distractions linked to this pattern.

While brain scans are not yet commonly used in clinical practice, they offer important insights that inform the development of innovative treatments. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations about managing symptoms and exploring new approaches.

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

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.