The problem with attention “deficit” (Ernie’s story)

Back when he was a criminal defense lawyer, Ernest Anemone
related to one of his clients: An impulsive, irritable teenage
boy who burned down the penalty box of a hockey rink. But what
Ernie related to wasn’t just the ADHD behaviors. It was the
teen’s feeling of having no control over his own life.  


Now, Ernie is an actor, filmmaker, and executive coach for
Fortune 500 companies. Growing up, Ernie felt like he had no
agency. He knew he didn’t have the type of focus society favored.
But he was (and continues to be) good in a crisis. Ernie can
focus — one could argue — when it really matters.


Also in this episode, the embarrassment and shame that comes with
executive dysfunction. And is ADHD really an attention “deficit”?
   


To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes,
visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.


We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at
ADHDAha@understood.org.
Related resources

ADHD and hyperfocus

Hyperactivity in teens with ADHD: What it can look like

How attention works



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