Parenting a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Jordanian's perspectives

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Parenting Studies

Background:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) poses unique challenges for families globally.
• In Jordan, cultural factors, limited specialized care, and social stigma exacerbate the difficulties faced by parents of children with ADHD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of Jordanian parents raising children diagnosed with ADHD.
• To identify the specific challenges, impacts, and needs of these parents within the Jordanian context.

Main Methods:

• A phenomenological study was conducted with twelve Jordanian parents of children aged 4-14 diagnosed with ADHD.
• Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Parents navigated a difficult diagnostic journey marked by uncertainty about ADHD and its treatments.
• ADHD significantly impacted family dynamics, social life, and imposed a considerable caregiving burden (physical, emotional, financial).
• Limited access to specialized services compounded the challenges.

Conclusions:

• Jordanian parents face multifaceted challenges—physical, emotional, economic, and social—when raising children with ADHD.
• There is a critical need for culturally competent services, resources, and policies to support these families.
• Addressing the unique needs of parents is essential for improving care quality and outcomes for children with ADHD in Jordan.