Cognitive distortions and ADHD

When it comes to supporting kids with ADHD or other conditions that impact executive functioning, it can be challenging to understand some of the behaviors we’re seeing. Sometimes figuring out why they act the way they do can be confusing, especially when it appears that they’re engaging in certain self-sabotaging behaviors. This might include (but not be limited to) avoiding certain, inevitable situations or procrastinating…even if it means more work in the long run. Or even if it means missing out on something that might be important or enjoyable. When any of the above happens, cognitive distortions (a.k.a. distorted thinking can be the culprit). That’s why in this episode, I define and discuss cognitive distortions and how they relate to ADHD. Specifically, I share what cognitive distortions are, why we want to minimize them as much as possible. I start out with busting some myths, including why distorted thinking isn’t related to intelligence. I also talk about cognitive distortions that may pop up when someone has ADHD and how this can impact their ability to fulfill daily obligations (like chores, homework, etc.). Then, I wrap up by sharing some tips for working through distorted thinking. In this episode, I mentioned the work of Dr. Aaron Beck and Dr. David Burns as it pertains to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and defining cognitive distortions. You can find more information about Dr. Aaron Beck’s work here. You can find more information about Dr. David Burns’s work here. I also mentioned the Time Tracking Journal, a tool to help parents and educators support kids in engaging in positive self-talk and self-reflection during day-to-day tasks. It’s intended to help kids be more independent with tasks that require sequencing and planning; but it can also help kids reflect on social situations as well. It is particularly helpful in working through cognitive distortions, such as magnification and labeling. You can get more information about the Time Tracking Journal here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/timejournal The De Facto Leaders podcast was formerly the “Are they 18 yet?®” podcast. As of November 2022, the name of the show has changed, and we’ve shifted from a focus on parenting to a focus on supporting clinicians and educators to design effective services for kids (but parents are still welcome to listen). Episodes published before November 24, 2022 will still contain some of our old branding. 

Om Podcasten

On the De Facto Leaders podcast, host Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan helps pediatric therapists and educators become better leaders, so they can make a bigger impact with their services. With over 15 years of experience supporting school-age kids with diverse learning needs, Dr. Karen shares up-to-date evidence-based practices, her own experiences and guest interviews designed to help clinicians, teachers, and aspiring school leaders feel more confident in the way they serve their students and clients. She’ll cover a range of topics designed to help you support students' emotional and academic growth and set kids up for success in adulthood, including how to support language, literacy, executive functioning, and how to help IEP teams working together to support kids across the day. Whether you want to learn more effective strategies for your therapy session or classroom, be a more influential leader on your team, or find creative ways to use your skills to advance in your career, Dr. Karen has you covered.