Brain scans reveal three ADHD subtypes in children
Mar 4th 2026
A new brain imaging study of hundreds of children with ADHD finds three separate clinical-neural subtypes, a discovery that could pave the way for more personalised treatments.
- JAMA Psychiatry study analysed hundreds of brain scans and neurochemical signals from children with ADHD.
- Researchers identified three distinct biotypes: severe-combined with emotional dysregulation, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and predominantly inattentive.
- Each biotype showed unique clinical and neural profiles, indicating biological heterogeneity within ADHD.
- Authors say the finding could help move toward personalised treatment strategies rather than one-size-fits-all care.
- Clinicians note emotional dysregulation means amplified emotional responses and inattentive presentations reflect poor regulation of attention rather than an absolute lack of focus.