Important Considerations for ADHD 'Patient and Public' Involvement and Engagement in Research

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE)

Background:

• Research on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often benefits from patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE).
• Incorporating lived experience into ADHD research is crucial for comprehensive understanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize key learnings from ADHD research projects that integrated PPIE.
• To provide actionable 'top tips' for researchers working with PPIE groups, particularly those including individuals with ADHD.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing and accommodating the unique functional differences associated with ADHD.

Main Methods:

• The study summarizes experiences from delivering research projects involving PPIE groups with ADHD.
• Learning points are distilled from practical application of PPIE in ADHD research contexts.

Main Results:

• Key learning points and practical 'top tips' for researchers are identified.
• The study highlights potentially invisible functional differences in attention, organization, and time management experienced by individuals with ADHD.
• These differences can significantly impact the working practices of PPIE groups.

Conclusions:

• Including lived experience, particularly from individuals with ADHD, is vital for effective research.
• Researchers must be aware of and adapt to the specific functional needs of participants with ADHD to ensure successful collaboration.
• This work aims to improve the integration and effectiveness of PPIE in ADHD research.