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BMC Health Services Research
Published in: BMC Health Services Research 1/2016

Open Access 01-12-2016 | Research article

“It has to be fixed”: a qualitative inquiry into perceived ADHD behaviour among affected individuals and parents in Western Australia

Authors: Manonita Ghosh, Colleen Fisher, David B. Preen, C. D’Arcy J. Holman

Published in: BMC Health Services Research | Issue 1/2016

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Abstract

Background

The use of stimulant medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to improve classroom behaviour and sustained concentration is well known. Achieving a better academic grade has been reported as the prime motivation for stimulant use and is an increasingly discussed topic. The proliferation of stimulant use for ADHD has been a cause for public, medical and policy concern in Australia. This paper explores individuals’ perceptions of ADHD, the meaning that the diagnosis carries for them and their attitudes to stimulant medication treatment.

Methods

This qualitative study was underpinned by a social constructivist approach and involved semi-structured interviews with eight participants. The participants were parents of children with ADHD or were adults who themselves had been diagnosed with ADHD. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed.

Results

There were three interrelated yet contradictory overarching themes: (i) An impairment to achieving success, which can be a double-edged sword, but has to be fixed; (ii) Diagnosis as a relief that alleviates fault and acknowledges familial inheritance; (iii) Responsibility to be normal and to fit in with societal expectations. Collectively, these perceptions and meanings were powerful drivers of stimulant use.

Conclusions

Paying attention to perceptions of ADHD and reasons for seeking or not seeking stimulant treatment is important when planning appropriate interventions for this condition.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
“It has to be fixed”: a qualitative inquiry into perceived ADHD behaviour among affected individuals and parents in Western Australia
Authors
Manonita Ghosh
Colleen Fisher
David B. Preen
C. D’Arcy J. Holman
Publication date
01-12-2016
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Health Services Research / Issue 1/2016
Electronic ISSN: 1472-6963
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-016-1399-1

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