In today's attention economy, where social media platforms, entertainment apps, and news feeds vie for our focus, millions have turned to focus apps in the hope of enhancing productivity. These apps, ranging from Forest to Apple Screen Time, promise to help us regain control. However, a recent study from the University of British Columbia reveals a surprising twist: for neurodivergent individuals, these digital distraction blockers may actually exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and shame. This is particularly concerning given that neurodivergent individuals, who make up an estimated 10-20% of the Canadian population, often struggle with conditions like ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. These conditions can make it challenging for them to focus in the same way as neurotypical individuals, and current focus apps fail to account for these differences.
One of the main issues with these apps is their inflexible design. They often assume a one-size-fits-all approach to focus, ignoring the unique strengths and challenges of neurodivergent individuals. For example, while the Pomodoro Technique encourages uninterrupted, distraction-free 25-minute blocks of work, many neurodivergent individuals struggle with organizing and carrying out tasks, sensing the passage of time, or feeling overwhelmed by busy environments. This can make it difficult for them to enter a state of focus, and the pressure to meet arbitrary time limits can cause stress and anxiety.
Another surprising finding was the phenomenon of 'digital stimming.' Some neurodivergent individuals intentionally turn off their blockers to engage with distracting content, such as a favorite YouTube clip or social media feed. This behavior is inspired by the repetitive, soothing behaviors known as stimming often seen in neurodivergent communities. However, turning off blockers can lead to 'doomscrolling,' where individuals become trapped in a cycle of endless scrolling and negative thinking. Current distraction blockers offer no support for this middle ground, leaving neurodivergent individuals feeling guilty for needing support.
The shame associated with using distraction blockers is another significant issue. Neurodivergent individuals often feel inadequate when they don't meet their own standards for productivity or when they compare themselves to others. The amount of time they can stay focused in apps like Forest becomes a shameful point of comparison, and they worry about becoming dependent on these 'crutches.'
To address these issues, the authors suggest three ways to re-imagine future distraction blockers: supporting curated digital stimming, using task-based rules over timers, and framing blockers as scaffolds rather than crutches. By adapting to the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals, these apps can empower them to focus without making them feel guilty for needing support. Ultimately, focus apps should adapt to us, not the other way around.
