Are There Emotion‑Processing Differences in ADHD Brain Scans?

PostedOctober 6, 2025

UpdatedOctober 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Yes, studies show that ADHD emotion processing differs in brain scans, especially involving changes in amygdala activity and wider limbic system functioning. When people with ADHD view or react to emotional stimuli, their brain imaging often reveals weaker or less coordinated responses in regions meant for recognising emotions and regulating how strongly we feel them. These findings help explain many of the emotional regulation challenges common in ADHD.

In more detail, tasks using fMRI (for example, matching faces showing fear or anger) find that people with ADHD tend to have lower amygdala activation compared to controls, especially in the left amygdala. Also, functional connections between the amygdala and medial prefrontal cortex (a key node in the limbic system) are altered; in ADHD the coupling during emotional tasks is weaker. Structural MRI studies similarly point to volume‑differences in parts of the limbic system, which may influence how people with ADHD perceive, respond to, or regulate emotion.

Common Symptoms Linked to Emotional Processing Differences

Below are emotional symptoms often tied to these scan findings, and how treatment may help:

Frequent Emotional Overreaction or Mood Swings

Some individuals may feel easily upset or overwhelmed by emotional cues, such as seeing someone angry or criticism. Stronger amygdala‑activity when the brain overreacts (or weaker regulation via limbic‑prefrontal connections) can contribute. Medication, especially stimulants, may help moderate emotional reactivity, while CBT offers strategies to recognise triggers, pause responses, and reframe thoughts.

Difficulty Recognising Others’ Emotions & Social Strain

Misreading emotional expressions or reacting too slowly/emotionally can strain social relationships. Altered connectivity in the limbic system, particularly between amygdala and prefrontal areas, underlies these issues. Social‑skills training, therapy, and structured feedback help build awareness and more accurate emotional perception.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations tailored to your ADHD care and support needs.

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

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.