Research & Resources Library
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The ADHD Tide: A Self-Organising Model of Cyclic Cognitive States in Novelty-Seeking Minds
By Beescout Research Team
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is generally framed as a stable neurodevelopmental deficit. Yet individuals often report predictable waves of hyper-focus followed by collapse—patterns the static model cannot explain. We advance the ADHD Tide hypothesis, positing that attention, motivation and executive control in ADHD follow self-organising, quasi-rhythmic states generated by feedback loops among dopaminergic tone, fluctuating executive resources, environmental stimulation and task affordances. These tides differ from circadian or ultradian clocks: they are not driven by fixed oscillators but by context-sensitive regulation seeking an optimal arousal range. Synthesising evidence from dynamic dopamine imaging, intra-individual variability studies, ecological momentary assessments, creativity research and behavioural ecology, we show that tide-like cycling can confer exploratory advantages while clashing with environments that demand sustained, low-stimulation focus. We outline a research programme—experience sampling, dense-sampling neuroimaging and computational modelling—to map state signatures, transition triggers and adaptive functions. Recognising these rhythms reframes clinical goals from enforcing consistency toward harnessing optimal phases, informing state-contingent interventions, rhythm-friendly workplaces and self-management tools. By shifting ADHD from a static deficit to a dynamic regulation profile, the ADHD Tide model offers a unifying lens for research, clinical practice and human-centred design.
Read MoreThe Scout Brain Hypothesis: ADHD as an Evolutionary Adaptation
By Beescout Research Team
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is conventionally described as a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. However, an emerging perspective argues that these very traits might have served an adaptive purpose in humanity's past. This"Scout Brain Hypothesis"posits that ADHD-related characteristics evolved to benefit early human communities. Instead of being a mere deficit, the ADHD brain could be understood as a "scout" brain –optimized for exploration, novelty-seeking, and rapid response. This introductory paper outlines the foundational argument for ADHD as an evolutionary adaptation, emphasizing the scout analogy and summarizing key evidence, while keeping methodological details to a minimum. The goal is to present a clear, compelling case that reframes ADHD in an evolutionary context, stimulating further research and discussion
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