Examining the relationship between autism and ADHD

About the Project

Although considered as separate disorders in major diagnostic manuals where disorders are characterised categorically, the co-morbidity rate between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD is 50-70%. The two disorders share many characteristics, including attentional hyperfocus and sensory processing changes. Sensory processing is an excellent arena in which to examine the relationship between the disorders given experimental evaluation of sensory processing is straightforward. The project we envisage will involve using computerised tasks in humans as well as techniques like EEG to investigate and compare sensory functioning in the two disorders. Looking for commonalities between these conditions will allow us to gain a fuller understanding of the circuitry which underlies the conditions and may be a step in the development of ‘transdiagnostic’ treatments.

Funding Notes

Self funded or externally sponsored students only. Intakes are usually October and March annually.

NB The University has some scholarships under competition each year. More details can be found - View Website

References

Varbanov V., Overton P.G., Stafford T. (2023) ADHD and ASD traits are indirectly associated with sensory changes through anxiety. Current Psychology, 42(36), 32355–32367