Illness-perception in adolescent attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Adolescent Psychology

Background:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) presents unique challenges for adolescents, impacting academic and social functioning.
• While ADHD can foster creativity, difficulties in self-regulation can lead to feelings of inadequacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the illness perception and emotional experiences of adolescents diagnosed with ADHD.
• To understand how adolescents perceive and cope with their ADHD.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 12 adolescents (8 boys, 4 girls) diagnosed with ADHD.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted using phenomenological and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Adolescents described negative self-perceptions, including lack of control over cognition, behavior, and emotions.
• Participants reported feeling judged, experiencing self-stigmatization, and discrimination, leading to feelings of being 'not normal'.
• Key self-empowerment strategies included managing external stimuli, seeking support, and utilizing personalized learning.

Conclusions:

• Adolescents with ADHD face significant struggles with self-control and often experience social stigma.
• Self-taught coping mechanisms and personalized strategies are crucial for managing ADHD.
• Understanding adolescent ADHD experiences is vital for educators and clinicians to address stigma and support effective coping.