Transition Turbulence: Why the "In-Between" is So Hard by Dr. Michelle Rad
Dr. Michelle Rad, Licensed Clinical Psychologist
7/14/20261 min read
Does your child struggle to stop playing to get in the car? Or do they "collapse" the moment they walk through the front door after school? This isn't defiance; it's a "Cognitive Shifting" challenge.
1. The Fuel System: The Cost of Shifting
The ADHD Brain: Think of this brain as a high-performance race car that has been "locked" into a high-speed lap. Shifting gears to a "boring" task like homework requires a massive amount of dopamine—the fuel they are already low on.
The Autistic Brain: This "Super Computer" brain prefers a steady stream of predictable data. A sudden transition is like a forced software update mid-process; it causes the system to lag or crash because the "filter" can’t process the change fast enough.
2. Emotional Regulation: The Transition "Pop"
The ADHD Reaction: When forced to shift too fast, the "soda bottle" pops. The reaction is immediate and loud because their internal "brakes" aren't yet strong enough to slow the momentum of the previous task.
The Autistic Reaction: A transition can feel like a sensory overload. Without "predictability," the pressure cooker starts to hiss. They aren't trying to be difficult; they are physically overwhelmed by the "new" environment.
3. Practical Takeaways for Parents
Focus on Predictability: Give "transition warnings" before changing tasks.
The Sensory Bridge: Give them a "sensory sanctuary" or a calming object to hold during the move to help their brain "unplug" from one task and "recharge" for the next.
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