Presenter Information
Tessa Schlechter: Sociology Department
Abstract
What are the implications and impacts of the opinions and stigma of ADHD? How does the societal perception of ADHD impact medical treatment and treatment outcomes, and how does it impact the overall experience of those with ADHD? The existing literature on the topic of ADHD perception discusses studies which highlight barriers to the recognition of ADHD, specifically due to misconceptions and lack of education or resources. There is little discussion in literature of counseling as treatment or co-treatment for ADHD, or discussion of the involvement of healthcare professionals such as nurses and pharmacists. Additionally, the treatment of ADHD by healthcare providers, the impact of having ADHD, and the impact of treatment, are under researched areas. Across five studies, evidence was found that there is significant negative perception and stigma toward ADHD, differently experienced than the stigma of other mental illnesses, such as depression. There is evidence that teachers and caregivers play a large role in the recognition of ADHD and access to treatment. A conclusion that the societal perception of ADHD impacts medical outcomes and life experience for ADHD patients may be drawn from these pieces of data. My research consisted of 13 qualitative interviews of 4 adults with ADHD and 9 without ADHD, of various occupations. These interviews explored personal experiences, understanding, and feelings regarding ADHD. Data gathered within this study is somewhat consistent with current knowledge while illuminating otherwise under-studied aspects of ADHD.
School
McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts
Advisor
Dr. Matthew Schneirov
Submission Type
Paper
Publication Date
April 2023
Included in
The Impact of Societal Perceptions of ADHD
What are the implications and impacts of the opinions and stigma of ADHD? How does the societal perception of ADHD impact medical treatment and treatment outcomes, and how does it impact the overall experience of those with ADHD? The existing literature on the topic of ADHD perception discusses studies which highlight barriers to the recognition of ADHD, specifically due to misconceptions and lack of education or resources. There is little discussion in literature of counseling as treatment or co-treatment for ADHD, or discussion of the involvement of healthcare professionals such as nurses and pharmacists. Additionally, the treatment of ADHD by healthcare providers, the impact of having ADHD, and the impact of treatment, are under researched areas. Across five studies, evidence was found that there is significant negative perception and stigma toward ADHD, differently experienced than the stigma of other mental illnesses, such as depression. There is evidence that teachers and caregivers play a large role in the recognition of ADHD and access to treatment. A conclusion that the societal perception of ADHD impacts medical outcomes and life experience for ADHD patients may be drawn from these pieces of data. My research consisted of 13 qualitative interviews of 4 adults with ADHD and 9 without ADHD, of various occupations. These interviews explored personal experiences, understanding, and feelings regarding ADHD. Data gathered within this study is somewhat consistent with current knowledge while illuminating otherwise under-studied aspects of ADHD.