Distractibility

Distractibility is a term used in psychology to describe the difficulty an individual may have in maintaining focus on a task or activity due to attention being diverted to irrelevant stimuli. This can be a symptom of various mental health disorders, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Bipolar Disorder.

Definition

Distractibility refers to the inability to maintain attention or focus on a task due to the presence of irrelevant stimuli. This can be external, such as noises or visual distractions, or internal, such as thoughts or feelings. Distractibility is often associated with a lack of concentration and can lead to difficulties in completing tasks and achieving goals.

Causes

Distractibility can be caused by a variety of factors, including mental health disorders such as ADHD and Bipolar Disorder, as well as certain medical conditions such as brain injury or neurological disorders. It can also be a side effect of certain medications.

Symptoms

Symptoms of distractibility can include difficulty focusing on tasks, being easily distracted by irrelevant stimuli, difficulty following instructions, and difficulty staying organized. These symptoms can interfere with an individual's ability to function in daily life, including at work or school.

Treatment

Treatment for distractibility often involves addressing the underlying cause. This can include medication for conditions such as ADHD or Bipolar Disorder, cognitive-behavioral therapy to help individuals learn strategies to manage their distractibility, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a healthy diet.

See Also

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Bipolar Disorder
• Concentration
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Distractibility Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? WikiMD's DocFinder can help find general and specialist physicians.	Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials.