No such thing as normal

TV presenter Sonia Gray speaks with the team at Mātai about emerging ADHD research in an episode of her podcast No Such Thing As Normal.

The project, led by Professor Justin Fernandez at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute UoA, involves collaboration with Mātai neuropsychiatrist Dr Gil Newburn and former charge MRI technologist Paul Condron. It explores how advanced brain imaging can improve understanding of ADHD and neurodivergent brain function.

The episode examines what science can reveal about neurodivergent brains, including how measurable changes in brain activity are beginning to validate lived experiences of ADHD.

Importantly, the project also has a strong community focus. By translating scientific findings into real-world understanding, it helps families better interpret behaviours often associated with ADHD. Rather than viewing these behaviours as deliberate or problematic, the research highlights that they can reflect underlying neurological differences. This shift in understanding can be powerful, helping move families from confusion or frustration toward empathy and support.