Year: 2019
Type: dissertation
Abstract: ENGLISH ABSTRACT : Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental, neurobiological condition of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Recent studies and a new understanding of ADHD reveal that many individuals continue to experience ADHD symptoms throughout adolescence and into adulthood. ADHD results in functional impairment in various areas of an individual’s life and may result in disturbances to the family and work contexts, affect marital relationships and result in a tense parent-child relationship. This study, which explored the experiences of single mothers with ADHD who are raising children with ADHD was exploratory and qualitative in nature. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven single mothers of children with ADHD and thematically analysed. Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological theory of human development was identified as an appropriate framework to interpret the findings due to the biological and interpersonal complexities associated with an ADHD diagnosis across the lifespan. Thematic analysis revealed that these mothers face many challenges in their daily life related to their diagnosis, marital status and the stigma associated with adult ADHD and raising a child with ADHD. These challenges were identified as negatively affecting their work-related responsibilities, financial management, diagnoses, emotional and mental wellbeing and maintaining new relationships. Despite the multitude of challenges the participants faced daily, they identified several strategies that were employed to maintain their wellbeing, support their children’s development and manage daily tasks. Such strategies focused on structured parenting and nurturing their children’s independence. The findings also indicated that single mothers with ADHD who are raising children with ADHD experience stigma in various areas of their lives. The mother-child relationship was identified as being based on mutual empathy and understanding despite challenges related to their diagnosis. The results of this study highlight the need for mental health and medical professionals to contribute to designing and implementing interventions for similar family systems, which are currently widely unacknowledged and who perceive an immense lack of support across all their systems.
Author: Jessica Elizabeth Cheesman
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: Universiteit Stellenbosch
OpenAlex ID: W2946821979