#### [[Object impermanence in ADHD affects preference for top level structures]] --- With infants and the game *"peek-a-boo"* the baby is always surprised at the reveal because they have not yet developed object permanence. Object permanence being the knowledge that just because the face is hidden behind the hands, doesn't mean it no longer exists when hidden. With ADHD there's a common theme of *"forgetfulness"* i.e. *"out of sight, out of mind"*. In reality, ADHD brains struggle with object permanence. An example i like is leaving vegetables in your crisper drawer. If you cant see them, you forget about them and then they mold. Because it really is a matter of *"out of sight, out of mind"* ADHD brains tend to appear messy with organization when in reality many are just *"spreading everything out, or placing it so everything is visible simultaneously"*. This appears very cluttered to others, who prefer storage of everything and a clean, stark surface. *"My <u>organized</u> disorganization is your disorganization"*. For ADHD brains this is a way of making sure everything is still top of mind^[[[Top level organization enforces a link based organizational network of information]]], unforgotten, visible, and memorable. --- Tags: [[Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder]] - [[Memory]] - [[Neurology]] - [[Psychology]] - [[Organization]] - [[Object Permanence]] Reference: Related: - [[A well established environment makes reliance on self control discipline and willpower unnecessary]]