Page 14 - GHES-3-2

Global Health Economics and
Sustainability
Flow states in neurodivergence: Cognitive integration

Table 1. Integrating neurodivergence, brain networks, and flow: a framework for enhancing cognitive engagement
Concept Role in neurodivergence Interaction with flow state Potential applications
DMN Influences internal thought processes Deactivation is crucial during flow to Tailored cognitive training to enhance
and self-referential activities; atypical in reduce distractions and enhance focus; poor the switch between DMN and TPNs.
neurodivergence, affecting connectivity regulation may impede flow in neurodivergent
and function. individuals.
TPNs Engaged during goal-directed activities; Activation supports attention and engagement Development of environments and
requires effective management, which during flow; effective coordination with DMN tools that optimize task engagement for
can be challenging in neurodivergent is essential for maintaining flow. neurodivergent individuals.
individuals.
Transient Reduces activity in the prefrontal cortex, Facilitates creative and immersive experiences Use of neurofeedback and biofeedback
hypofrontality potentially beneficial for those with by lowering barriers to spontaneous thought to train brain regions involved in flow to
executive function challenges. during flow. manage their activity more effectively.
Expertise-plus- Leverages deep knowledge and the Enables harnessing of skills and knowledge Implementing educational and
release model ability to release control, which can be effortlessly, combined with the capacity for professional development programs
particularly powerful for neurodivergent innovation and creativity in flow states. that align with personal interests and
individuals with focused interests. strengths.
Abbreviations: DMN: Default mode network; TPNs: Task-positive networks.

maintain engagement and promote flow. For instance, deep focus. For example, sensory-friendly environments have
neurofeedback training has shown promise in enhancing proven effective in various therapeutic settings, enhancing
cognitive functions by providing real-time feedback on individuals’ ability to concentrate and engage with tasks
brain activity, helping individuals learn to control the (Yoshida et al., 2014). In addition, developing tools that help
activation of specific brain regions (Hosseini et al., 2016). neurodivergent individuals organize tasks and manage time
according to their natural rhythms and cognitive preferences
Individuals with both ASC and ADHD represent a can be highly beneficial. Intelligent task management software
unique population in terms of DMN and TPN processing, that uses artificial intelligence to suggest optimal scheduling,
as the coexistence of these conditions can create complex break times, and task sequences based on user performance
interactions between brain networks. Research indicates patterns and preferences can boost productivity and flow.
that the overlap of these conditions may intensify Such tools can align with the specific needs of neurodivergent
difficulties in switching between the DMN and TPNs, individuals, enhancing workflow and task management
leading to challenges in sustaining focus as well as (Vinogradov et al., 2012).
persistent mind-wandering or hyperfocus (Hosseini et al.,
2016; Chacón, 2021). The combination of ASC’s intense, Utilizing biofeedback and neurofeedback technologies
specialized focus and ADHD’s impulsivity and attentional can help neurodivergent individuals monitor and modulate
variability produces distinct cognitive patterns that differ their brain activity in real time, fostering conditions conducive
from those seen in individuals with only one condition. to flow. Wearable devices that track brainwave activity,
However, the neural mechanisms driving these interactions heart rate variability, and other physiological indicators can
remain underexplored, representing an important area for offer feedback and guided exercises to help users achieve a
future research. Studying how dual-diagnosed individuals state of relaxed focus. Neurofeedback enhances cognitive
process the DMN and TPNs could provide insights into and emotional regulation by enabling individuals to self-
personalized interventions tailored to this unique cognitive regulate brain activity through operant conditioning (Fink
profile. Addressing this gap could lead to the development et al., 2023). With insights from these technologies, targeted
of tailored cognitive training and neurofeedback programs interventions can be developed. Educational and training
that consider the combined effects of both ASC and ADHD, platforms that tap into the deep interests of neurodivergent
offering more effective strategies for enhancing flow states. individuals can foster engagement and flow in learning
activities. Personalized learning platforms that allow users
Creating environments that minimize distractions and to explore subjects at their own pace through interactive
provide optimal stimulation levels can help neurodivergent multimedia content tailored to their interests and learning
individuals enter flow states. These environments can be styles can significantly enhance the learning experience.
both physical and virtual. Sensory-friendly workspaces with These platforms make learning more enjoyable and
adjustable lighting, noise levels, and ergonomic furniture create effective by aligning with the unique cognitive strengths of
comfortable settings that reduce sensory overload and promote neurodivergent individuals (Jiang et al., 2017).

Volume 3 Issue 2 (2025) 6 https://doi.org/10.36922/ghes.4345