Instructions Unclear: No Motivation Detected

There is a growing body of research and theory—especially from psychology and neuroscience—that helps explain why people with ADHD (and Autistic folks) often have a strong need to understand the why behind tasks, rules, or expectations. Here are some of the key concepts and findings:

1. Motivational Frameworks and ADHD

Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is particularly relevant here. It suggests that humans are motivated when three needs are met: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. ADHDers often struggle with motivation when tasks feel externally imposed or lack personal meaning. Understanding the why provides context and aligns with their need for autonomy and intrinsic motivation.

• Implication: When a task aligns with a value or purpose (rather than being arbitrary), it becomes easier for ADHD brains to engage.

2. Executive Function Deficits

ADHD is associated with impairments in executive functions, including:

• Working memory (holding the steps of a task in mind),

• Goal-directed persistence (sticking with something until it's done), and

• Self-regulation.

Without understanding why something matters, it's harder for ADHDers to maintain goal-directed behavior. The "why" helps bridge short-term effort with long-term outcomes, a function that might otherwise be under-supported in the ADHD brain.

3. Interest-Based Nervous System

Psychiatrist Dr. William Dodson coined the term "interest-based nervous system" to describe how ADHD brains are primarily motivated by:

• Interest

• Challenge

• Novelty

• Urgency

• Passion

This means that without emotional or intellectual interest, tasks feel flat or unapproachable. Understanding the "why" can create emotional resonance or relevance that ignites this system.

4. Rejection Sensitivity and Trust in Authority

ADHDers often experience rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) and may have a long history of being misunderstood, micromanaged, or dismissed. As a result, they may:

• Question authority or resist compliance without understanding rationale,

• Need transparency to feel emotionally safe,

• Seek out relationships and work environments built on mutual respect and justification of rules, not hierarchy.

5. Learning Style and Curiosity

Many ADHDers are pattern-seekers and system thinkers. They want to understand how things connect—not just what to do. The "why" feeds a deep intellectual curiosity and helps anchor memory and learning.

In short, needing to know the "why" isn’t oppositional—it’s often a functional adaptation. It helps ADHDers create relevance, build trust, engage motivation, and overcome executive function gaps.