| Chapter 1: | Introduction |
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Canadian mothers’ access to cost-free medical services (at point of service) suggests that they may be better equipped to cope with the associated difficulties of raising an ADHD child.
Definitions and Consequences of ADHD
Children with ADHD are distinguished by an excess of several behavioral characteristics such as inattention, distractibility, restlessness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity (DSM-IV). While most children display these behaviors to some extent, it is the excess of these behaviors which is thought to be particularly problematic. Researchers have found that the presence of ADHD can significantly impair the child’s ability to function successfully in a variety of social roles and settings (Barkley, 1997; Hallowell & Ratey, 1994; Quinn, 1997). As the problematic nature of the disorder suggests, increased caretaking demands exist for parents of children with ADHD (Anastopoulos, Guevremont, Shelton, & DuPaul, 1992; Barkley & Cunningham, 1980; Cunningham & Barkley, 1979).
The behavioral characteristics of ADHD children have been found to significantly add to the stress experienced by mothers. For example, children with ADHD have been found to be generally less compliant with mothers’ requests, more often off task and distractible, and more demanding of attention and assistance in comparison to non-ADHD children (Barkley & Cunningham, 1980; Cunningham & Barkley, 1979; Mash & Johnston, 1982, 1983). Several studies suggest that mothers of children with ADHD are significantly more likely to experience stress, anxiety, and depression as a result of the increased caretaking responsibilities associated with their child’s disorder (Befera & Barkley, 1984; Cunningham et al., 1988; Fischer, 1990).