Parents' attitudes, intentions and behaviours regarding medication adherence for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) is a persistent childhood disorder that affects about five per cent of children. Symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity at developmentally inappropriate levels. Numerous studies have shown that stimulant medication is the safest and most effective treatment for ADHD. Optimum treatment for ADHD usually requires two to three doses a day, generally administered by parents. But up to 80 per cent of parents frequently fail to give their child the medication as directed by a health professional. Douglas Scoular is examining parents’ beliefs, attitudes and intentions about giving their children stimulant medication for ADHD to determine why parents fail to administer the medication. This research will provide important information on parents’ concerns about administering stimulant medication, help predict which parents will be successful in following the treatment regimen, and ultimately help improve health care providers’ ability to successfully treat children with ADHD.