Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a product of evolutionary mismatch: Identification of Possible Benefits Using Mixed Methods
Featured Speaker: Amanda E. Kunkle, Ph.D. student, Department of Anthropology, University of Washington.
Abstract: Characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with functioning across settings, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is among the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorders, affecting ~11% of US children and ~6% of US adults and ~8% of children and ~7% of adults globally, and is highly heritable (~80%). ADHD is argued to be a case of evolutionary mismatch, wherein previously adaptive or neutral phenotypes become maladaptive in new environments. ADHD appears to be context-dependent, with symptoms fluctuating during the life course in response to environmental demands. Thus, ADHD may be less impairing—or even beneficial—in some contexts.
This dissertation used mixed methods to investigate the contexts where ADHD is beneficial, integrating anthropological, demographic, and genetic methods to identify if and when ADHD confers meaningful ben…
Event interval: Single day event. Campus location: Denny Hall (DEN). Campus room: 313. Accessibility Contact: anthinfo@uw.edu. Event Types: Lectures/Seminars. Target Audience: Undergraduate/Graduate Students, Faculty, and Staff.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM.