Effects of ADHD on Generative and Elaborative Aspects of Creativity

While some research suggests that Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) negatively impacts creative abilities by limiting the processes thought to aid divergent thinking (focused attention, executive functions, etc.), others have found that cognitive traits associated with ADHD may aid in accessing uninhibited ideas. Studies, however, have failed to separate the effect of ADHD on the idea generation vs. elaboration phases within creativity. This study investigated how traits of ADHD affect these two phases, predicting that those with strong traits of ADHD would excel in creative idea generation over elaboration. Participants completed a two-part drawing task designed to separate the creative phases. They were given 3 minutes to transform nine incomplete circles into as many original and creative sketch ideas as they could, before choosing one drawing to elaborate on further during a second 3 minute time block. The results found a significant positive relationship between traits of ADHD and average creativity rates for the idea generation phase. No significance was found between traits of ADHD and the idea elaboration phase creativity rates. The study concluded that ADHD has a positive impact on novel idea generation (but not elaboration) within creativity