"Dopamine-chasing” and technology overuse in ADHD - The role of OT intervention in an increasingly digital world (February 11, 2025)

Presented by: Michelle Scott  

Research argues that smartphone overuse is related to “dopamine chasing” (Greenfield, 2021; Reddy, 2021). The implications of this for ADHD in adolescents and adults, in an increasingly digital world, are dire. Occupational therapists can help clients with ADHD develop a better handle on this phenomenon through Motivational Interviewing and values-based inquiry, occupational analysis and intervention, environmental analysis, and other therapeutic approaches. This workshop will focus on dopamine chasing, ADHD, and smartphone/social media use with a review of the literature and methods to educate clients on this in an appropriate manner. Participants will further examine the “technology addiction” model and what that means in a constantly-connected world. Participants will also discuss conventional occupational therapy approaches to managing ADHD and how they may be challenged by the nature of our digital world. “Values-aligned action” and motivational interviewing as an essential base for therapy OT interventions for technology overuse in adolescents and adults with ADHD-like traits will also be covered.

After taking part in this webinar, participants will be able to: 

1. Understand the mechanisms behind dopamine chasing, smartphone use, and their unique implications for ADHD, and how to communicate this to clients.
2. Understand how to engage helping their clients develop motivation for change through motivational inquiry and the concept of “values-aligned action”.
3. Understand the OT role in managing technology overuse in people with ADHD and learn about specific interventions that address person, environment, and occupation.

Level  Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this specific practice area)