Temperament Trait - Distractibility

This is the 8th in a series of 11 blog posts about temperament. (Click here to return to the beginning)

Distractibility is the degree to which we are distracted by outside stimuli from what we are currently doing. A highly distractible person is attuned to his surroundings, notices people and other elements of the environment and will likely respond to them regardless of whether or not he is engaged in another task. 

What is the difference between distractibility and ADD/ADHD?

Being highly distractible is an element of ADD/ADHD but so too is having trouble focusing attention, a tendency to drift away in the middle of a page or conversation, often coupled with an ability to hyperfocus at times. This implies a marked inconsistency in the ability to focus rather than a general tendency to being distracted. 

At the highly distractible end of the spectrum

  • Baby will pop on and off while nursing in response to sounds and activity in the room

  • Toddler can be lured from one fun activity with the promise of another

  • Child will flit from one activity to another in a stimulating environment

  • Teen will notice every whisper and movement in a quiet study space

  • Adult can jump from one task to another in a busy workplace

At the focused end of the spectrum  

  • Baby will have a long attention span for interesting objects

  • Toddler will not like interruptions when engaged in a task

  • Child will listen to a story she likes even when others are playing the background

  • Teen may not notice when you call her name

  • Adult will be able to focus in a busy room with people coming and going

For the young highly distractible child we can put limits on the stimulation in the environment keeping it to a minimum if we wish them to focus. As they mature they will need to learn to either reduce the stimuli themselves or that it's alright to notice different inputs but that doesn't need to derail you if you're in the middle of a task. Tasks are easier when broken down into shorter steps.

It may at times be difficult to get the attention of the more focused child. Take the time to make eye contact, provide warnings and time limits if you need this child to move on to another activity. These children need adults to show them the range of amazing possibilities that are out there so they don't get stuck on just a few. Tasks will be more satisfying if enough time is allotted for completion.  

Dealing with FeelingsCamila TroughtontemperamentComment