Object Permanence and ADHD: Connecting to the Unseen

This concept can be a challenge for people who do not live on the ADHD spectrum or have similar memory-related conditions. How can a person simply forget that something or someone exists or ever existed? It must mean we didn't care about the thing or lacked respect for its importance, right..... WRONG!

We wish deeply that we didn't have this aspect in our lives. We want to remember the people and the things, but our biology is stopping us.

This trait has always been something that frustrates me about my brain, and I have struggled to address it (and likely always will).

I remember sitting down with a childhood friend and reminiscing about the hijinks we got up to in our teenage years. They mentioned a specific person we had an adventure with, and I could not remember them. I could not visualize their face (strange for a visual thinker), and I couldn't remember how they participated in the adventure or any other interaction I had with them during the months we hung out regularly. They were completely erased from my memory. It almost felt like I was a character in the movie Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Still, to this day, I can not remember the person, and the more I try, the less I find.....

My memory is not brilliant, and my psychological studies prove that, but there must be more to it.

(Of course, I will remind you that there are cognitive trade-offs. For example, my two negative traits, Memory and Organization, both in "Low Average", have the trade-offs with my Perceptional Reasoning, Verbal Comprehension and Flexibility being in "High Average" and "Superior" to the average on the bell curve.)

Let's explore what might be contributing to this unique challenge in my life and the challenges many others like me are forced to address.... What is Object permanence?

Object permanence is a cognitive skill that develops during infancy. This concept, first introduced by Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget, refers to the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or otherwise sensed. This is a fundamental concept that most people take for granted. However, for individuals living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), object permanence can be a challenging concept to grasp.

The Science Behind Object Permanence and ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. It affects approximately 5% of children and about 2.5% of adults worldwide. Research has shown that individuals with ADHD often struggle with executive functioning skills, which include memory, flexible thinking, and self-control. One of the lesser-known executive functions affected by ADHD is the ability to maintain object permanence. A study published in the Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology found that children with ADHD had significant difficulties with tasks requiring the use of object permanence compared to their peers 1

Another study in the Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society found similar results in adults with ADHD. The study found that adults with ADHD were more likely to forget about objects once they were out of sight, indicating a struggle with object permanence 2

Managing ADHD in the Workplace

Understanding the challenges individuals with ADHD face with object permanence can help create a more inclusive and supportive workplace. Here are some considerations for managing this condition in the workplace:

1. Organization Tools: It can be beneficial to provide tools and resources to help employees stay organized. These could include physical organizers, digital tools, or apps designed to help with task management.
2. Clear Communication: Ensure instructions and expectations are communicated clearly and concisely. This can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that tasks are completed correctly.
3. Regular Check-ins: Regular check-ins can help keep employees on track and provide an opportunity to address any issues or concerns that may arise.
4. Flexible Work Environment: A flexible work environment can help accommodate the unique needs and strengths of individuals with ADHD. This could include flexible work hours, the option to work from home, or adjustments to the physical workspace.

How Leaders Can Help

Leaders play a crucial role in supporting employees with ADHD. Here are some ways leaders can help:

1. Education and Awareness: Leaders should educate themselves and their teams about ADHD and its associated challenges. This can help foster understanding and empathy within the team.
2. Provide Feedback: Constructive feedback can help employees with ADHD understand where to improve and how to do so.
3. Encourage Open Dialogue: Leaders should encourage open dialogue about mental health in the workplace. This can help employees feel more comfortable discussing their needs and challenges.
4. Implement Accommodations: Leaders should be willing to implement reasonable accommodations to help employees with ADHD succeed. This could include adjustments to work schedules, tasks, or the work environment.

Understanding the link between ADHD and object permanence can help create a more inclusive and supportive workplace. By implementing the right strategies and accommodations, leaders can help employees with ADHD thrive in the workplace.