ADHD traits blunt the brain’s automatic-learning edge, study finds

A 226-participant online study found that higher ADHD-like traits disrupt the usual automatic-learning boost that occurs when deliberate control is weakened; instead of gaining faster responses to hidden patterns, participants with ADHD traits did not show this advantage, possibly due to poorer inhibition, cue reactivity, and mind wandering, with limitations including a non-lab sample and reliance on self-reported symptoms.