Stigmas, Perception, and Dismissal: Perception of ADHD in Society

By: Gayatri Papagari (Grade 10)

As is the case with many neurodevelopment disorders, there is an array of stigma and misconceptions when it comes to ADD (attention deficit disorder) or ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in society, especially when it comes to kids.

These misunderstandings are prevalent among parents, educators, and even healthcare professionals. The idea that ADHD is a behavioural issue rather than a legitimate medical condition can affect the treatments that the children receive, and even impact their lives long term.

Labelling ADHD or ADD kids as ‘problematic’ or ‘bad kids’ can lead to social isolation and emotional distress for affected children. This can hinder identification of kids who do have ADHD or ADD and delay getting the help and support they need, especially in the educational environment. There also happen to be disparities across different demographics when it comes to identification. For example, kids whose families have lower incomes are more likely to have children diagnosed with ADHD because of the increased stressors. Black children go undiagnosed more often than their White counterparts, and girls are often left undiagnosed compared to boys because of the difference in symptoms. Research has shown that because of stereotypes and expectations, quietness and daydreaming, which are signs of ADHD, are dismissed as typical behaviour. The disruptive behaviour that is thought of as indicative of ADHD is more prevalent in boys, leading to diagnosis is boys but dismissal when it comes to girls.

Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to increased feelings of frustration and inadequacy, which can lead to chronic low self-esteem. This internalisation can lead to anxiety and depressive disorders, and can also affect academic performance and career prospects, compounding the emotional toll flet. This is why it is so important for caregivers and educators to recognise symptoms early on, which can only happen if all responsible individuals are properly informed and warned against harmful stigmas like these.