What Imaging Findings Show Dopamine System Abnormalities in ADHD? 

Brain imaging has revealed clear evidence that the ADHD dopamine system imaging is disturbed, especially when using PET scans to assess how dopamine is produced, transported, and received in the brain. These abnormalities help explain some of the difficulties people with ADHD have with reward, motivation, impulse control, and attention. 

Among the most consistent findings is altered dopamine transporter (DAT) availability. PET and SPECT imaging show that in ADHD, DAT binding is often different (either elevated or reduced depending on medication history and age) in regions like the striatum, nucleus accumbens, and midbrain. Other imaging studies also report lower availability of dopamine D2/D3 receptors in these same reward pathway regions. In addition, research indicates that when people with ADHD perform reward‑based tasks, the brain’s dopamine release pattern is altered with less anticipation response and sometimes blunted response to rewards or penalties.  

Common Symptoms & Treatment Implications 

Below are symptoms connected to these dopamine system imaging findings, and how they can guide treatment: 

Poor Reward Responsiveness & Motivation 

Many with ADHD may struggle to feel motivated by delayed rewards or show reduced pleasure in expected rewards. This correlates with altered reward pathways and reduced dopamine receptor/DAT availability in imaging. Medication (especially stimulants that increase dopamine availability) can help enhance reward anticipation. Behavioural therapy can support reward sensitivity by reinforcing small wins and immediate feedback. 

Impulsivity & Difficulty Controlling Behaviour 

When prefrontal deficits in dopamine signalling are present, people may find it harder to inhibit impulses, delay gratification, or resist temptation. Imaging studies link these deficits with abnormal transporter and receptor activity. Medication that adjusts dopamine levels helps, and CBT can teach strategies for impulse control and decision‑making. 

These imaging correlates are not diagnostic on their own but offer important clues about how dopamine dysfunction contributes to core ADHD traits.  

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations informed by the latest findings in dopamine system imaging. 

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