Focus apps are failing neurodivergent minds, new research finds
theconversation.com
Many focus apps fail to consider neurodivergent strengths, such as the ability to hyperfocus.

From the conclusion:

  1. Support curated digital stimming: Blockers 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.
  1. Use task-based rules over timers: Distractions could be blocked until a specific goal is met (for example, “until I write two pages”) rather than setting arbitrary time limits for focus.
  1. 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.

Internet developers. Please fix the apps!

What else would you like to see in a focus app? Do you know any that do a good job (in the directions above ideally)?

  • FinjaminPoachEnglish
    2·
    3 days ago

    Yeah I never go anywhere near those things because 1) i don’t want to become dependent on a specific app to function 2) my phone atm doesn’t support anything, it’s a brick that messages people and has chrome browser and that’s it. 3) if you’re using a focus app, your problem is presumably phone, so you should find a way to cut your relationship with phone itself.