What fMRI Tasks Reveal ADHD Brain Activity?

PostedOctober 6, 2025

UpdatedOctober 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

ADHD fMRI tasks are crucial for understanding the brain activity patterns associated with ADHD. These tasks are designed to observe how the ADHD brain responds during tasks that require cognitive control, working memory, and inhibition. They provide insights into why individuals with ADHD often struggle with tasks that require attention, impulse control, and decision-making.

Some common fMRI tasks used in ADHD studies include working memory tasks and inhibition tasks. In working memory tasks, individuals are asked to hold and manipulate information, revealing how areas like the prefrontal cortex and parietal regions activate. People with ADHD often show reduced activity in these regions, which may contribute to difficulties in retaining and using information. Inhibition tasks require participants to suppress impulsive actions, and ADHD individuals often show decreased activation in areas responsible for cognitive control, such as the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia.

How fMRI Tasks Help Understand ADHD Symptoms

The information gathered from fMRI tasks helps explain why certain ADHD symptoms occur and how they can be addressed with treatment.

Inattention and Working Memory Challenges

The prefrontal cortex‘s reduced activity in working memory tasks can make it harder for individuals with ADHD to focus and remember information. Stimulant medication can enhance brain activity in these areas, while CBT can teach practical strategies to improve memory and focus.

Impulsivity and Inhibition Issues

Inhibition tasks often show reduced brain activity in ADHD, suggesting difficulty in controlling impulses. Medication can help regulate brain function, and behavioural therapy offers tools for managing impulsive behaviours.

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 fMRI tasks.

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.