1709 – Parents’ Perceptions Of Adolescents With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Introduction

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Arises in childhood and can persist throughout adulthood, and may cause difficulties in personal, academic, familiar, social and professional life areas of the individual.

Objective

To know and describe the parents’ perceptions of teenagers with ADHD about this disorder.

Aims

To assist in the understanding of ADHD in adolescence.

Method

Oral thematic research with parents of adolescent assisted in a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinic of Ribeirão Preto Medical School Hospital of the University of São Paulo, Brazil. The semi-structured interviews were performed with 5 families at their residences.

Results

The analysis of parents’ narratives identified two categories: “living with a teenager with ADHD” and “adolescent with ADHD in school context”. Parents realize that they, as well as, school professionals have difficulties in dealing with the adolescent with ADHD. Recognize that since childhood their children manifest different behaviors. They mentioned lack of knowledge, information and guidance related to this disorder. They were concerned about the future of these young people and the discrimination they suffer.

Conclusion

Social and family relations established with the adolescents with ADHD can be characterized by constant conflicts. It is necessary to offer support and guidance to parents, with the joint participation of health care and education professionals. The approaches must be constantly evaluated to its improvement and adequacy, following the different phases of young people's development.