The world of focus apps is a tricky one, especially for neurodivergent individuals. While these apps promise to help us stay on task and be more productive, new research from the University of British Columbia reveals that they may actually be doing more harm than good for this marginalized group. The study, co-authored by Marvel Hariadi and supported by funding from NSERC and a 4YF Fellowship, highlights the limitations of current focus app designs and suggests a path forward for more inclusive and empowering tools.
The Limitations of Current Focus Apps
Focus apps, such as Forest and Apple Screen Time, aim to block distractions and help users stay on task. However, the research found that these apps' inflexible designs often clash with the unique ways that neurodivergent individuals think and focus. For example, the Pomodoro Technique, which encourages uninterrupted, distraction-free work blocks, may not work for those with ADHD, who may struggle with executive dysfunction and time blindness.
The study also revealed that some neurodivergent students intentionally turn off their blockers to engage with distractions, a strategy they refer to as 'digital stimming'. This practice, inspired by the repetitive, soothing behaviors of stimming in neurodivergent communities, can help manage cognitive overload and ease transitions into difficult tasks. However, it also comes with the risk of falling into 'doomscrolling', highlighting the lack of support for a middle ground in current focus app designs.
The Shame of a 'Crutch'
The research participants often felt shame when using distraction blockers, especially when they didn't meet their own productivity standards or compared themselves to others. The fear of becoming dependent on these apps as a 'crutch' and the worry about having to use them 'for the rest of their lives' further exacerbated their feelings of inadequacy.
Towards Empowering Designs
To address these issues, the researchers suggest three key changes in the design of future focus apps:
- Support Curated Digital Stimming: Apps could provide familiar, soothing content that fits neatly into a set amount of time for digital stimming, helping users settle their minds without falling into doomscrolling.
- Use Task-Based Rules Over Timers: Distractions could be blocked until a specific goal is met (e.g., 'until I write two pages') rather than setting arbitrary time limits for focus.
- Use Scaffolds, Not Crutches: Blockers could be framed as a way to build personalized growth and self-acceptance through affirming language that normalizes fluctuating focus.
In conclusion, the current focus app landscape fails to support neurodivergent individuals, who make up a significant portion of the population. By embracing more flexible and empowering designs, these apps can become more inclusive and effective tools for all users, helping them focus without the added burden of guilt or shame.
