Learning Through Focus Groups with Parents, Educators, and Healthcare Providers About the Child’s Journey from Diagnosis to Treatment Adherence for ADHD

Publication: Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
25 July 2024

Abstract

The journey of obtaining a diagnosis and treatment for children and youth with ADHD can be challenging for all those involved. Focus groups were conducted with parents (n = 21), educators (n = 76), and healthcare providers (n = 39) to gather information regarding perceptions of this journey, especially as it relates to treatment utilization and adherence. Three cross-cutting categories emerged: the impact of socio-economic variables, the lack of integrated and continuity of care for ADHD, and the stigma surrounding ADHD and treatments. The results help to determine what is needed to support families to facilitate successful treatment for their child with ADHD.

Résumé

Le parcours en vue d’obtenir un diagnostic et un traitement pour les enfants et les jeunes atteints d’un TDAH peut être un défi pour toutes les personnes concernées. Des groupes de discussion ont été organisés avec des parents (n = 21), des éducateurs (n = 76) et des prestataires de soins de santé (n = 39) afin de recueillir des informations sur les perceptions de ce parcours, notamment en ce qui concerne l’utilisation et l’adhésion au traitement. Trois catégories transversales ont émergé : l’impact des variables socioéconomiques, le manque d’intégration et de continuité des soins pour le TDAH, et la stigmatisation entourant le TDAH et les traitements. Les résultats permettent de déterminer ce qui est nécessaire pour soutenir les familles afin de faciliter la réussite du traitement de leur enfant atteint d’un TDAH.

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Information & Authors

Information

Published In

cover image Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
Volume 43Number 2June 2024
Pages: 1 - 29

History

Version of record online: 25 July 2024

Key Words

  1. ADHD
  2. treatment utilization and adherence
  3. focus group

Mots-clés

  1. TDAH
  2. utilisation et observance du traitement
  3. groupes de discussion

Authors

Affiliations

Gabrielle Rigney
Central Queensland University
Melissa McGonnell
Mount Saint Vincent University
Carolin Van Voorst

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