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Journal article
Prospect and Refuge in the Workplace: An Exploratory Pilot EEG Investigation of Desk Orientation and Hypervigilance Among Adults with ADHD
Architecture (Basel), v 6(2), 51
25 Mar 2026
Featured in Collection : Research Supported by Drexel Libraries' OA Programs
Abstract
Open-plan workplaces are often associated with increased sensory exposure, which may present challenges for adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a condition characterized by atypical arousal regulation and sensory sensitivity. Although the Prospect–Refuge Theory suggests that spatial configuration may influence perceived security and attentional states, objective neurophysiological evidence in workplace contexts remains limited. This exploratory pilot study employed a mixed design to examine whether desk orientation and office enclosure were associated with differences in neural activity among adults with ADHD (n = 6). Four desk configurations were tested within each office setting, while two office types (Open Office and Enclosed Private Office) were examined between participants. Neurophysiological data were collected using portable electroencephalography (EEG), and power spectral density (PSD) across canonical frequency bands was analyzed during standardized cognitive tasks. Results indicated context-dependent spatial effects. In the Open Office setting, configurations providing both outward visibility and visual backing were associated with lower beta and gamma power relative to orientations lacking these features. In the Enclosed Private Office, orientation-related differences were not statistically significant. These preliminary findings suggest that desk orientation may influence neural indicators of cognitive demand in open-plan environments. Given the small sample size, results should be interpreted cautiously but contribute initial physiological evidence to neurodiversity-informed workplace research.
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Details
- Title
- Prospect and Refuge in the Workplace: An Exploratory Pilot EEG Investigation of Desk Orientation and Hypervigilance Among Adults with ADHD
- Creators
- Jinoh Park - University of Arkansas at FayettevilleMichelle Boyoung Huh - Virginia TechMarjan Miri (Corresponding Author) - Drexel University, Architecture, Construction, Design, and UrbanismMelissa Hoelting - Dallas CountySamantha Flores - Dallas CountyYashaswini Karagaiah - Dallas CountyMahdi Afkhami - Dallas County
- Publication Details
- Architecture (Basel), v 6(2), 51
- Publisher
- MDPI
- Number of pages
- 15
- Grant note
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
This research was funded by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Upjohn Research Initiative 2023 (https://www.aia.org/advocacy/research/grants-fellowships/upjohn-research-initiative accessed on 22 March 2026).
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Architecture, Construction, Design, and Urbanism
- Web of Science ID
- WOS:001803390600001
- Other Identifier
- 991022172260804721
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- Collaboration types
- Domestic collaboration
- Web of Science research areas
- Architecture
- Construction & Building Technology