Title:
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Young people's experiences of ADHD and social support in the family context : An interpretative phenomenological analysis
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This study examined the experience of young people diagnosed with Attention
Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a significant topic for research as it
is one of the most common and highly contested psychiatric diagnoses given to
children. There are debates about the aetiology and validity of ADHD, nevertheless
family factors are widely considered to be significant to outcomes for children and
young people given this diagnosis. However, insufficient attention has been paid to
understanding young people's lived experience in the family. The aims of this study
were to explore and articulate how young people, aged between eleven and
eighteen, experience living with a diagnosis of ADHD within the context of their
families. Particular attention was paid to the young people's experiences and
perceptions of the support they receive. The study employed a qualitative
methodology. Semi- structured interviews were conducted with seven boys and one
girl. The data from the interviews were analysed using Interpretative
Phenomenological Analysis. Four super ordinate themes were generated from the
analysis: 'The importance of belonging', 'Is there more to me than my ADHD? ',
'Creating calm from chaos' and Trying to make sense of ADHD'. The participants
faced challenges in maintaining accepting relationships, managing their emotions,
understanding the nature of their difficulties and developing a coherent personal
identity. The participants valued a range of support: practical, emotional,
informational and affirmational in facing these challenges. The findings are
discussed in relation to the literature on the lived experience of ADHD and social
support. Consideration was given to the implications for future research and clinical
practice.
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