Understanding the ADHD Brain Through Magic

Could there be a magic cure for ADHD? Maybe not, but scientists are discovering that magic shows can help us understand the brain mechanisms behind attention.

It's no hocus pocus: Neuroscientists at Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona, are collaborating with magicians to gain a better understanding of the brain mechanisms behind attention and awareness.

The scientists, working with world-famous magicians (including Teller of Penn and Teller), studied the sleight-of-hand illusion techniques used to trick the audience during shows. They found that humor and misdirection can be used to manipulate attention and focus.

The scientists say their research has given them a better understanding of attention and cognition in the brain, and they suggest that humor and misdirection may be useful in treating ADHD, as well as Alzheimer's disease and brain trauma.

Read more about the research on St. Joseph's Hospital's website.