A phenomenological study of adolescents' lived experience of support for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Published: 2005
Language: eng
Number of pages: 170
Description: This study explores adolescents' lived experience of formal and informal support for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, individual and focus group interviews were conducted with seven adolescents diagnosed with ADHD in order to capture the essential elements of each participant's everyday experiences of support and uncover the universal meaning shared by all. Results indicate that, from the perspective of adolescents, there is a fundamental mismatch between adolescents and adults in their understandings of ADHD and the most appropriate strategies for intervening. Four main themes emerged that portrayed adolescents' experiences of support for ADHD: It's No Big Deal, I Don't Think They Care , Nobody Understands, and  My Opinion Means Nothing. The results suggest that caregivers must build on adolescents' own definitions and understandings of ADHD; use methods of communication that young people find comfortable and respectful; and deliver services that acknowledge the needs, expertise, and preferences of adolescents.
Notes: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 44-01, page: 0335.

Thesis (M.Sc.)--University of Toronto, 2005.

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