Arab Immigrant Muslim Mothers’ Perceptions of Children's Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common behavioral problem among children and has been studied extensively. However, this disorder is understudied in ethnic, immigrant minorities in the United States including Arabs.PurposeThe purpose of this study was to elicit mothers’ perceptions and responses to behavioral problems associated with ADHD in children.MethodsA descriptive qualitative study was conducted with Arab immigrant Muslim mothers who had children between the ages of 5–12 years old. Data were analyzed using content analysis.ResultsMothers recognized problematic behaviors that are consistent with the diagnosis of ADHD. This is an important step toward seeking help to diagnose and treat children with ADHD. Moreover, Mothers’ decision to seek help to address these behaviors were linked to the presence of several triggers. Finally, the participants may be less likely to seek help from mental health professionals for their children's behavior problems.ConclusionCulturally sensitive interventions may be needed to help Arab immigrant families access care for children with behavior problems such as ADHD. Recommendation: Future research is needed to better understand the actual utilization of mental health services in Arab immigrant families who have children with ADHD.