I was talking to a wonderful student who I’ve had the great pleasure of teaching for the last two and a half years – they are both fun and very knowledgeable about tech. They were talking about their experience of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and how they use music, and the kind of music they use to aid studying and enhancing their life more generally, specifically about their playlist and the foreign language songs on it. I certainly listen to music when I work, though only certain classical music will do: Mozart is a favourite, I love The Anonymous Four and Gregorian chant, and Bach’s cello concertos also hit the spot! However, I was particularly interested in how, and what sort of music might benefit students with ADHD.
The profound impact of music on the human psyche is undeniable. It has the unique ability to stimulate every part of the brain, uniting cognitive functions, emotions, and physical responses in a harmonious symphony of experience. Music not only prompts us to move and creates lasting memories but also engages our mathematical skills through its inherent rhythms and scales, often evoking deep-seated emotions.
A Beacon for ADHD Minds
For individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder , music transcends its typical benefits, offering a specialised form of relief from the over-stimulation that characterises their daily experiences. Contrary to common misconceptions, ADHD does not merely involve a lack of attention but rather an overwhelming attentiveness to a multitude of stimuli. This heightened sensitivity can lead to a barrage of distractions, making it challenging for those with ADHD to focus on their intended tasks.
The inundation of stimuli can not only distract but also tire and debilitate, making it crucial to find methods to manage this unique form of cognitive overload. Here, music steps in as a soothing balm. Much like the calming effect of fidget spinners, music serves to occupy certain areas of the brain, thus freeing up the executive functions to concentrate on specific tasks. This can calm the mind, offering relaxation and focus, akin to a form of self-medication.
The Scientific Backing
I have many years experience teaching students with specific learning needs, including ADHD and have adapted resources for student’s specific needs, I’m always interested in the latest research, so I did some further reading around academic studies. These studies have begun to shed light on the tangible benefits of music for those with ADHD, especially in academic settings. One intriguing research avenue is the effect of white noise on cognitive performance. A study contrasting the performance of children with and without ADHD revealed that white noise improves recall and verbal abilities in children with ADHD, whereas it might hinder those without the condition.
Furthermore, the potential of binaural beats to enhance concentration in students with ADHD is being explored. This auditory processing tool could represent a new frontier in educational support for ADHD students. Other recommendations include a playlist like my student’s: they are keen on “otaku culture,” and Asian digital media, and so some of there songs have this origin. One of the recommendations I’ve read it that songs in foreign languages are great because they engage without distraction.
The Potential of Music in ADHD Time Processing
Research by Luiz Rogério Jorgensen Carrer highlights the positive modulation music can have on symptoms of inattention in ADHD. The study’s findings suggest that music, in various forms, could positively influence time processing and attention in children with ADHD.
Embracing Musical Study Aids
For students with ADHD, music and sound can be powerful allies in the quest for academic success. Incorporating white noise or binaural beats into study sessions, or simply allowing oneself to be enveloped in melody, can significantly enhance concentration and learning efficiency. This approach is not only accessible and affordable but also carries no risk, making it a valuable strategy for students and educators alike to explore. The great new is there are plenty of free, long-playing sound tracks on YouTube to experiment with, or apps such as White Noise Lite, which has both white and brown noise, plus fans and air conditioners, or even in meditation apps such as Headspace or Balance with white and brown noise features, which can also be useful for sleep too. The key is trying out several and finding out what works for you.
Music can also be a great creative outlet and this article from ‘The Brain Charity’ about Neurodivergence, ADHD and dance music has some very interesting insights into ADHD, dance music and ‘true creative genius is often born out of neurodiversity and conditions like ADHD, ASC and dyslexia.’
As we continue to unravel the complex relationship between ADHD, music, and learning, it becomes increasingly clear that the harmonious blend of sound and cognition holds promising potential for those seeking to navigate the challenges of ADHD with grace and efficiency.
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