The relationship between ADHD diagnoses in children and parental attitudes towards trialing treatment
Authors
McKenna, Rachael
Issue Date
2014
Degree
Higher Diploma in Arts in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the attitudes of parents with ADHD diagnosed children and observe how certain attitudes influence parental decisions and opinion with regards ADHD medication. This study was a quantitative design questionnaire comprising correlational elements. Participants consisted of eleven males (n=11) and thirty-six females (n=36). Two respondents did not specify sex (n=2), total number of participants amounted to forty-nine (n=49). Participant’s mental health was investigated using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ12 – Goldberg, 1992). Attitudes towards treatment were explored using the Questionnaire on Attitudes Towards Treatment (QATT – Ferrín, 2010). Data was analysed using t-tests, ANOVAs, regressions and Pearson correlations. Overall, the study found that while respondents’ own mental health was quite good, their attitude towards treatment was more negative. A significant difference with regards attitudes was found between older and younger parents. In addition to this, respondents whose children were diagnosed more recently had more positive attitudes. Attitudes towards treatment and acceptance of an ADHD diagnosis were more positive in participants who had greater knowledge of treatment. Author keywords: ADHD, parental attitudes, treatment