Diversity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a debilitating disorder which affects children and adults in this country and around the world. Diversity variables such as ethnicity, age, gender, and socioeconomic status have been relatively neglected in ADHD research. Additionally, these variables have not traditionally been incorporated into clinical assessment, diagnosis, or intervention strategies. A review of the existing literature regarding diversity issues and ADHD was conducted, including a review of international findings. Implications for clinicians and researchers are incorporated.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Diverse Populations

“…In the past, most studies have utilized only young, white, male subjects (Gingerich et al, 1998). In the past, diversity variables have generally been overlooked in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of children with ADHD.…”

“…Although the person is treated within an environmental context, the culture, ethnicity, age, gender, and SES of the individual affect the context. Therefore, in order for the child with ADHD to receive appropriate evaluation and treatment, an understanding of the effect culture, ethnicity, age, gender, and SES plays in the childÕs life must be considered (Gingerich et al, 1998).…”

“…However, numerous studies carried out over the last 15 years have significantly changed this view. Although it is unclear how many people remain symptomatic throughout their lives, current research shows that 30-60% of children with ADHD still meet the full criteria for ADHD in adulthood (Gingerich et al, 1998).…”

The Subjective Experiences of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder of Chinese Families in Hong Kong: Co-Construction of Meanings in Multiple Family Groups: Table 1:

“…Children with ADHD suffer from executive dysfunctions ( Brown, 2013) that subsequently lead to their emotional, behavioral, peer, and school maladjustment ( Barkley, 2002;Mikami & Normand, 2015). Managing ADHD is a demanding task for parents that lowers parental self-esteem ( Gingerich, Turnock, Litfin, & Rosén, 1998) and self-confidence ( Alizadeh, Applequist, & Coolidge, 2007). The tension in parenting also affects the parents' marital relationships, and these families often have a high rate of separation and divorce ( Johnston & Mash, 2001).…”

Cultural Currents

“…Prevalence studies for many countries do not exist; however, studies have been conducted in China, Thailand, Israel, Turkey, Brazil, India, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. 5 Although the signs and symptoms of ADHD are basically the same in these diverse countries, they each represent a different ethno-socio-cultural context in which the condition is interpreted and responded to by patients, their families, caring professionals, and others. 6 Several recent studies demonstrate that in 40% to 70% of children, ADHD persists into adulthood.…”