Hyperfixation, with reference to neurodivergence (i.e., Autism/ADHD, AuDHD, etc), can be characterised as a heightened state of focus or attention on a particular activity, subject, or interest. People often think of experiencing hyperfixation as being completely absorbed in something.
Hyperfixations can happen to anyone; however, to people who are neurodivergent, instances of hyperfixation may be more frequent and/or intense.
There are many reasons hyperfixation can occur; for example, it can provide a sense of comfort and purpose through the repetition of a certain activity, or it may foster a sense of stimulation and joy in the person.
Some signs of hyperfixation include: losing track of time while engaging with the interest, feeling as if you are “tuning out” the world around you, and task-switching can be much harder.
Sometimes, instances of hyperfixation may have unwanted consequences, such as ignoring daily hygiene activities or losing track of important responsibilities.
Other definitions/things to note:
Hyperfixations differ from ‘Special Interests’ in that Hyperfixation is the complete absorption in the interest or activity; a person with a hyperfixation may appear to completely ignore everything else around them in favor of their focus.
Typically, hyperfixation is dedicated to something someone may already find interesting or particularly enjoyable. This person might increase their knowledge of the subject or improve their performance during hyperfixation.
This means that special interests and hyperfixation could happen at the same time, even though they are not the same thing.