Parental Challenges in Raising Preschoolers With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Mainland China's...

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Child Psychiatry
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• First-tier Chinese cities present unique challenges for raising children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) due to rapid urbanization and intense academic pressure.
• Limited research exists on ADHD parenting challenges in the preschool period within Chinese metropolitan settings, despite the critical need for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the comprehensive challenges encountered by parents raising preschool-aged children diagnosed with ADHD in major metropolitan areas of mainland China.

Main Methods:

• Web-based semistructured focus group interviews were conducted with 13 parents of preschoolers with ADHD in first-tier Chinese cities.
• Participants were recruited via the ADHD Mutual Support Alliance platform.
• Qualitative data were analyzed using framework analysis with dual-researcher coding and participant verification for rigor.

Main Results:

• Parents reported challenges across six themes: individual psychological/behavioral issues, family/school environment difficulties, coordination issues, work-family/healthcare access barriers, societal stigma, and impacts of historical/social changes.
• Key issues included parental emotional burden, managing child behaviors, lack of teacher understanding, inconsistent diagnostic standards, limited specialized services, and societal discrimination fears.
• The COVID-19 pandemic and gaps in support systems compared to other countries were also noted.

Conclusions:

• Parents face multifaceted challenges in accessing specialized healthcare, navigating educational systems, and utilizing culturally adapted interventions for preschoolers with ADHD in Chinese metropolitan contexts.
• Interventions must address challenges across ecological levels, focusing on healthcare accessibility, culturally sensitive programs, educational accommodations, and public awareness.
• Addressing these systemic issues is crucial for supporting families and improving outcomes for children with ADHD in rapidly modernizing Chinese cities.