What brain structure and function abnormalities in the basal ganglia cause ADHD?

PostedAugust 18, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Basal ganglia abnormalities ADHD are crucial to understanding the role brain structure and function play in the development of ADHD. The basal ganglia, a group of structures deep within the brain, are responsible for controlling movement, behaviour, and emotional regulation. The brain’s capacity to control attention, impulse control, and motor functions, all of which are important aspects of ADHD, can be severely impacted by abnormalities in these regions.

In individuals with ADHD, basal ganglia abnormalities ADHD can result in an overactive or underactive basal ganglia, affecting cognitive and behavioural functioning. These alterations could result in impulsive behaviour, hyperactivity, and attention problems, all of which are frequently seen in people with ADHD. Disruptions in the basal ganglia ADHD can also influence emotional regulation, making it harder for individuals to control their responses to stimuli or maintain focus.

Common Symptoms Linked to Basal Ganglia Abnormalities

Here are some common symptoms associated with basal ganglia abnormalities ADHD:

Difficulty focusing and staying on task

Children and adults with ADHD often struggle to maintain focus, particularly on tasks that require sustained attention. This is often linked to basal ganglia abnormalities ADHD, which disrupt attention regulation.

Impulsivity and hyperactivity

Impulsive behaviours, such as interrupting others or excessive movement, are common in ADHD. These symptoms are often caused by dysfunction in the basal ganglia, which regulates motor control and impulse inhibition.

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.