How Does Functional Connectivity Mature in ADHD?

PostedOctober 6, 2025

UpdatedOctober 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Research into ADHD functional connectivity reveals that individuals with ADHD often experience delayed brain development in key neural networks. Functional MRI studies show that the maturation of connections within and between regions involved in attention, inhibition, and executive control tends to lag behind typical developmental timelines.

This maturation delay particularly affects the default mode network (DMN) and frontoparietal control systems, which are essential for self-regulation and focus. In younger individuals with ADHD, these networks may appear less synchronised, contributing to common symptoms such as distractibility, impulsiveness, and poor task persistence. Over time, some functional integration improves, but many adults still show persistent underconnectivity in areas critical for executive functioning.

Key Functional Impairments and How to Manage Them

These delays in neural network development may be reflected in real-world behaviours:

Sustained Attention Difficulties

Children and adults may struggle to maintain focus, particularly on tasks that require mental effort. Stimulant medication is often effective in boosting activity in underperforming networks and improving attention span.

Poor Impulse Control

Immature functional links in prefrontal areas can lead to impulsive speech or actions. CBT is commonly recommended to teach strategies for pausing and evaluating actions before responding. Understanding how ADHD functional connectivity evolves with age can help guide interventions tailored to a person’s stage of development.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations based on the latest research in brain maturation.

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

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.