VR gaming reveals unique brain activity in ADHD children

Researchers from several European universities have made a breakthrough in studying Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children. They used virtual reality gaming to examine brain activity in kids diagnosed with ADHD, moving beyond traditional methods that focus on brain scans while people are at rest. The study involved children playing a virtual game called Epeli. During the game, their brain activity was monitored using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The results showed significant differences in brain activation between children with ADHD and those without, especially in areas related to attention and memory. Professor Juha Salmitaival from Aalto University explained that this new approach provides a better understanding of brain function during activities that can trigger ADHD symptoms. In contrast, when the children were at rest or watching videos, no noticeable differences in brain activity were found. The research suggests that ADHD is more about how different brain regions communicate rather than just activity in isolated areas. This finding could change how ADHD is diagnosed and treated, emphasizing the need for active engagement during assessments. The researchers also noted that the fast-paced virtual environments might reflect how modern digital interactions, like apps and social media, influence brain development. Salmi highlighted that as our environment changes, so too does our brain's ability to focus and concentrate. The team plans to continue exploring these ideas, including using new technologies to study brain activity in everyday situations. While current fMRI technology may not be practical for standard diagnostics yet, they believe this research could make ADHD evaluations simpler in the future.