Name
ADHD Accommodations Hidden in Plain Sight
Description
ADHD is best understood as an executive function impairment. Dr. Russell Barkley defines executive function as a collection of mind tools used to problem-solve. The impairment makes problem-solving more taxing for those with ADHD, rendering many interventions ineffective without proper accommodations in the same manner as a person reading without prescription eyeglasses. This presentation drills down into Dr. Barkley’s model, impairments, and why accommodations are essential as modifications supplied to satisfy a need to be productive such as elevators to reduce stigma around the concept and to recognize they are all around us hidden in plain sight. In that context, we’ll bring tangibility to intangible accommodations hidden in plain sight used by neurotypicals to problem-solve with specific examples, making an argument that those with ADHD need them to a greater extent. We’ll compare revealed accommodations hidden in plain sight that help to problem-solve with traditional ADHD accommodations centered around focusing harder, explaining why many interventions fall short. Insights from this presentation include that it is convenient for society to frame ADHD as a focus issue to avoid necessary but inconvenient accommodations and to provide logic and tangibility to advocate for what those with ADHD need to succeed!
Jeff Copper
Track
Adults with ADHD
Date & Time
Saturday, November 15, 2025, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM