Family Perception and Delay in Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: An Iranian Experience

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders among school age children. This syndrome is a combination of different symptoms, manifested in the form of attention deficit and the psychomotor hyperactivity. Families' knowledge about ADHD and attitude towards it varies. This study explored the manner in which Iranian families dealt with ADHD. The sample study comprised of 284 children aged 6 to 14 years old, with DSM-IV diagnosis of ADHD, treated in a university clinic during the first semester of 2002. Data were analyzed using SPSS and running descriptive tests combined with focus group interview method. An overwhelming majority of children (80%) did not receive psychiatric help except two years after symptom formation. Most families (90%) considered these symptos as "mischievous acts" or natural behavioural stage of childhood development. The variations observed in families' attitude toward ADHD have been explained in the context of socio-economic and cultural differences existing among the families. In view of these observations, it is imperative to familiarize families with symptoms of ADHD so a timely utilization of mental health services can be attained.