Why Neurodiverse Adults Use Their Phones to Pay Attention in Conversations

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s not uncommon to see individuals engaged with their smartphones, even during face-to-face conversations. For neurodiverse adults, particularly those with conditions such as ADHD or autism, this behavior can serve as both a coping mechanism and a tool for enhancing focus. Understanding why using a phone can aid in attention during social interactions sheds light on the nuanced relationship between technology and neurodiversity.

The Role of Dual Tasking

Research indicates that when neurodiverse individuals engage in dual tasks—like conversing while using a phone—they can better manage their cognitive resources. A study published in ACM Transactions on Accessible Computing suggests that providing a secondary stimulus can help some neurodiverse individuals filter distractions and thus concentrate on the primary task at hand (Maddox et al., 2020).

The act of using a phone may alleviate anxiety by allowing a sense of control over the conversation and the surrounding environment. For instance, tapping on a game or scrolling through social media can create a buffer against overstimulation, enabling the person to focus more effectively on the dialogue.

Managing Sensory Overload

Many neurodiverse adults experience sensory overload in social settings, which can make conversations feel overwhelming. Research published by the Frontiers in Psychology journal highlights that multitasking can provide a comfortable distraction for those who struggle with sensory overload, allowing them to remain engaged without feeling overwhelmed by the social stimuli (Mason & Kearins, 2021).

By playing with their phones, these individuals can create a “safe space” that minimizes discomfort. This not only makes conversations more manageable but can also facilitate smoother communication by reducing the strain of processing both verbal and non-verbal cues simultaneously.

Improving Engagement

Interestingly, using a phone during conversations doesn’t necessarily detract from engagement. On the contrary, it can enhance it. A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that for many individuals, using devices during discussions can aid in recalling information and retaining focus (Dunn & Decker, 2021). For neurodiverse adults, this means that the very phone that appears to be a distraction can be a tool that aids them in keeping track of the conversation.

The Power of Familiarity

For many neurodiverse individuals, technology has become a comfortable extension of themselves. Using a phone can create a sense of familiarity in social settings, which is particularly comforting for those who may struggle with social cues and interactions. Engaging with a phone allows them to maintain a sense of equilibrium, facilitating a smoother social experience. This aligns with findings in Neuropsychology Review, which discuss how familiar stimuli can ground individuals in potentially chaotic social landscapes (Hasson, 2020).

Conclusion

While it may seem unusual or even discourteous to some, the act of using a phone during conversations can serve important functions for neurodiverse adults. From aiding focus and managing sensory overload to enhancing engagement and providing comfort, these behaviors reflect the unique ways in which neurodiverse individuals navigate social interactions.

Understanding these practices can foster greater empathy and support for neurodiverse communities, encouraging more inclusive and accommodating environments in both personal and professional settings.

References

• Dunn, T., & Decker, C. (2021). The impact of mobile phone usage on conversation quality. Journal of Applied Psychology.

• Hasson, C. (2020). Familiarity and cognitive load in social interactions: Implications for neurodiverse populations. Neuropsychology Review.

• Maddox, T., Bowers, A., & Wang, H. (2020). Enhancing concentration through technology: A study of dual-task interference. ACM Transactions on Accessible Computing.

• Mason, L., & Kearins, H. (2021). Sensory overload and social engagement: The coping mechanisms of neurodiverse adults. Frontiers in Psychology.