Research Reveals Focus Apps May Harm Neurodivergent Users
Focus apps are failing neurodivergent minds, new research finds
Image: The Conversation
A study from the University of British Columbia indicates that distraction-blocking apps can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy among neurodivergent individuals, who comprise 10-20% of the Canadian population. The research suggests that these apps often fail to accommodate the unique cognitive needs of these users, leading to increased shame rather than productivity.
- 01Neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and autism, face unique challenges that current distraction-blocking apps do not address.
- 02The study involved interviews with 27 neurodivergent post-secondary students in Canada and the U.S. who regularly use distraction blockers.
- 03Many users reported that traditional focus techniques, like the Pomodoro Technique, do not align with their cognitive processes.
- 04Some students engage in 'digital stimming' by intentionally turning off blockers to manage cognitive overload, which is misunderstood as a lack of willpower.
- 05The study recommends redesigning focus apps to support neurodivergent users through personalized growth and self-acceptance.
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Research from the University of British Columbia highlights significant shortcomings in distraction-blocking apps designed to enhance productivity for neurodivergent individuals, who represent 10-20% of the Canadian population. The study reveals that these apps often impose rigid structures that clash with the unique cognitive styles of neurodivergent users, leading to feelings of shame and inadequacy about productivity. Interviews with 27 neurodivergent post-secondary students indicated that traditional focus techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique, do not accommodate their needs, as focus cannot simply be turned on and off. Many participants reported using 'digital stimming'—engaging with familiar digital content to manage cognitive overload—contrary to the intended purpose of distraction blockers. The researchers propose a redesign of these tools to better support neurodivergent users by incorporating curated digital stimming, task-based rules instead of timers, and affirming language that normalizes varying focus levels. This approach aims to empower neurodivergent individuals rather than reinforce feelings of inadequacy.
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The findings suggest that current productivity tools may not only fail to assist neurodivergent individuals but could also harm their mental well-being, necessitating a redesign to better meet their needs.
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