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Hyper-Focus: Exploring Justice Sensitivity in ADHD
Ever find yourself seething when someone skips the queue or feeling crushed by the unfairness you see around you? If you do, you might be tapping into a little-known trait common in ADHD: justice sensitivity.
Have you ever been told, "you're too sensitive," as if it's a problem? You may have justice sensitivity, and it can be a superpower.
I have ADHD that I manage effectively most of the time (this just happened organically as I only realised that I had ADHD a few years ago – I know… how did I, a psychologist, not pick this up?). At the time, I remember reading about ADHD and justice sensitivity and thinking, “that’s not me!”
Then it hit me. Yep, I was a dibby dobber as a kid….
My poor Principals (Primary and High School and if I think about it, The Flinders University Chancellor) all had to deal with me. I remember demanding an audience with the Renmark Primary School Principal, Mr. Brown when I was 10-12 years old. Most kids would avoid the principal at all cost, but the admin staff knew my name – that’s a hint about how often I would go down insisting I needed to speak to Mr. Brown. He was a very patient man – I never even needed an appointment.
He would come out and say, “Hello Maria, what can I do for you (the again was implied I think)?” Then I would step out my concerns (and possible solutions) that ranged from “this kid was being picked on by the teacher and it wasn’t fair” to “some bullies pushed a kid into a mud puddle, and it wasn’t fair.” This continued all through university where I insisted the lecturer in Personality re-mark our assignment as he had failed all the Sociology Majors, of which I was one, just because we challenged him. He re-marked the assignment.
My beliefs and actions about justice were fueled by my dad, Sam – he always stood up for the perceived underdog. Looking back, it’s now obvious to me that he also had ADHD……
People with ADHD, often have a heightened sense of justice. It's like their brains are set to 'detect unfairness' mode, whether it's the big stuff - like social inequality - or the daily annoyances, like line cutters and playground bullies.
This super-sensitive radar means those with ADHD feel injustices more deeply and personally than others. They’re not just aware of it - they feel it in their bones. Studies even back this up, showing that ADHD individuals react more intensely to unfairness.
But here's the kicker: this sensitivity can spark powerful emotions like anger or helplessness. Imagine getting caught in a mental loop, replaying those moments of unfairness over and over. It's no wonder it can be draining!
So, if you're an ADHD warrior who can't stop thinking about the world's injustices, you might be dealing with justice sensitivity. But don't worry, you're not alone, and there are ways to handle it.
Try reducing your exposure to constant bad news by filtering your feeds or turning off notifications. Keep your mind calm with mindfulness practices or relaxing activities like breathing exercises or nature walks.
Remember, your sensitivity to justice can be a superpower. Channel it into positive actions, like volunteering or small steps to help your community. This can turn your frustration into empowerment.
So, next time you feel the weight of the world's unfairness, take a deep breath. Your sensitivity is a gift that can drive real change - just make sure it doesn’t burn you out!
And if Mr. Brown is still around… “You were patience personified with me and gave me permission to say what I felt without being silenced. I’m sure that contributed to my desire to be a psychologist and help others.”
