Rewired Minds: ADHD, Attention, and the AI Generation | Komila Alikhodjaeva | TEDxYouth@TKA

Attention Span & Digital Impact - Human attention span is currently 8 seconds, less than a goldfish's 9 seconds [3][4] - In 2004, human attention span was 2 and a half minutes, now it's 47 seconds [4] - The human brain processes 40 bits of information per second, while modern technology delivers 400,000 bits per second, leading to difficulty in focusing [5] - The modern brain is likened to a browser with 27 tabs open, struggling to focus in an ADHD world mixed with AI [6] AI & Cognitive Impact - AI tools may diminish the ability to think and interpret independently [8] - There are concerns about whether thoughts are one's own or influenced by AI [8] - AI can be used as a mirror to strengthen one's own thoughts, rather than replacing them [12] ADHD & Generational Trends - In the USA, 6 million kids are diagnosed with ADHD by age seven, a 1 in 10 ratio [9] - Over 60% of ADHD cases continue into adulthood [10] - The presentation suggests reframing ADHD not as a malfunction, but as a new variation of thinking [13] Solutions & Recommendations - Create friction by making it difficult to get distracted, such as putting phones in another room or using website blockers [11][12] - Think about problems for at least 20 minutes before using AI [12] - Rewire the brain, rethink habits, and rethink tools to avoid being lost in readily available answers [14]