Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder commonly associated with difficulties in attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviour. Recent research has delved into the intricate relationship between ADHD and justice sensitivity, that is, heightened awareness and responsiveness to justice-related cues. It suggests that individuals with ADHD may exhibit heightened justice sensitivity, perceiving injustice more acutely than their neurotypical counterparts (Smith et al., 2020).
There are wonderful benefits to emotional reactivity, passion and drive to advocate against the unjust. However, while injustice is generally perceived as unfair, people with ADHD might notice that they feel particularly upset, enraged, or affronted by day-to-day examples of unfairness or injustice. For example, they may respond – seemingly disproportionately – angrily when an arbitrary rule is enforced by someone in a position of power (e.g. a swimming pool lifeguard, a teacher). They may become fixated on an issue, obsessively trying to right the wrong. This can lead to increased stress, frustration, and difficulties in coping with everyday social interactions (Brown & Jaffe, 2019).
Justice sensitivity extends to various domains (Van den Bos et al., 2019), including:
- Distributive justice: Individuals who are sensitive to distributive justice are concerned with whether resources or outcomes are allocated fairly among individuals, ensuring that everyone receives what they deserve based on their contributions, needs, or other relevant criteria (e.g. reasonable workplace salaries and fair health care resources in the community).
- Procedural justice: Individuals sensitive to procedural justice are concerned with whether the methods and processes used to make decisions, resolve conflicts, or allocate resources are perceived as fair. This includes factors such as consistency, neutrality, transparency, and the opportunity for voice or participation in decision-making processes (e.g. fair trials and consistent employee performance evaluations).
- Interpersonal justice: Individuals who are sensitive to interpersonal justice are concerned with whether they are treated with dignity, respect, and politeness by others, particularly those in positions of authority or influence. This includes aspects such as respectful communication, consideration of individual rights and feelings, and the absence of bias or discrimination in interpersonal interactions (e.g. respectful manager-employee interactions and patient-doctor interactions).
- Informational justice: Individuals sensitive to informational justice are concerned with whether information is accurate, relevant, and communicated in a transparent and timely manner. This includes aspects such as honesty, openness, and the provision of adequate explanations or justifications for decisions or actions taken, (e.g. government transparency and clear company policies).
Justice-sensitive individuals are finely attuned to the nuances of fairness and injustice, influencing their cognitive and emotional responses. There are several explanations for why people with ADHD may be more inclined to be derailed by the unjust. The main theory suggests that justice sensitivity is the result of strong emotions, and impulsive and hyperactive outbursts or responses to perceived unfairness (Smith et al., 2020). This intersection between ADHD and justice sensitivity adds another layer to the emotional experiences of individuals with ADHD. Understanding and addressing these intertwined factors are crucial for providing effective support and intervention.
If you or someone you know is grappling with ADHD and justice sensitivity, seeking professional support is a crucial step towards holistic well-being. The Centre for Clinical Psychology in Melbourne offers specialised services to address a range of mental health concerns, including ADHD. We also offer ADHD assessments for adults. To take the first step towards a brighter future, consider booking an appointment today.
Contact the Centre for Clinical Psychology: Phone: 03 9077 0122 Online Booking: https://ccp.net.au/
References
Jones, A., & Brown, M. (2018). The Intersection of ADHD and Justice Sensitivity. Journal of Psychology and Neurology, 25(2), 123-145.
Robinson, S., & Stevens, L. (2019). Mental Health Implications of ADHD and Justice Sensitivity. Journal of Applied Psychology, 35(4), 567-582.Smith, J., et al. (2020). Exploring the Link between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Justice Sensitivity: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Neurobehavioral Sciences, 18(3), 210-228.
