Perceptions of childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and treatment acceptability: Cultural trends

Abstract

A survey study, usmg a convenience sample, was conducted to assess relationships
between adult perceptions of childhood Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD) and treatment acceptability. Trends in perceptions about ADHD were also
examined among African Americans, European Americans, and Hispanics. Ninety (90)
participants completed questionnaires developed by the authors that evaluated beliefs
about the etiology of ADHD, sources of information used to learn about ADHD,
perceptions of stigma associated with ADHD, trust in the system, and attitudes about
treatments. Participants overwhelmingly expressed a neutral perspective regarding
ADHD-related perceptions. However, beliefs about etiology, endorsement of
nonprofessional information sources, and trust in the system predicted treatment
acceptability. Future research is needed with larger samples and more culturally sensitive
assessment measures to further explore the relationships between information sources,
trust in the system, and treatment acceptability to assist with the development of ADHD
treatment approaches individualized to the unique needs of ethnic minority populations.

Date of Award	2011
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Assege HaileMariam (Supervisor)