The low arousal theory is a psychological theory explaining that people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and antisocial personality disorder[1][page needed] seek self-stimulation by excessive activity in order to transcend their state of abnormally low arousal.
This low arousal results in the inability or difficulty to sustain attention on any task of waning stimulation or novelty, as well as explaining compulsive hyperactive behavior.
[5] Because there is thought to be underarousal of the HPA axis, studies have shown that this causes reduced secretion of epinephrine and cortisol.
[6] Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is characterized by repeated deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and aggressiveness since 15 years old.
When using sound to help brain function, also known as stochastic resonance, it was found that significantly more noise is required to improve the performance of those with ADHD, since they have less dopamine (hypodopaminergia).