Over time, we have gained access to more and more information related to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This allows us insight into how folks around the globe experience this form of neurodivergence. However, the truth remains that this knowledge hasn’t solved the problem of adequately meeting the needs of individual ADHDers because the perception, diagnosis, and treatment of ADHD can vary substantially among different cultures.
We should consider the role cultural differences play in understanding and managing this disorder. Undoubtedly, these differences can significantly alter the experience of those living with ADHD as well as the response to ADHD in the community.
How different cultures perceive ADHD
So, now we’ve established that cultural differences can significantly impact the perception of ADHD. In some cultures, the behaviors and emotions associated with these types of neurodivergences can be seen as bad parenting or simply a lack of discipline, but not as a condition that may require treatment and support. For example, while cultures that place a high value on independence and creativity in education may view some ADHD behaviors positively, those that highly value obedience may not see it that way.
On the other hand, attitudes that communities have towards mental health can also. Mental health issues can be highly stigmatized in some societies, leading in some cases to denial and, therefore, lack of diagnosis, while other cultures may be more open to accepting disorders and seeking professional help. The takeaway here is that these cultural differences can end up greatly influencing the prevalence of ADHD diagnoses and the rates of ADHD-related treatments.
The impact of culture on ADHD treatment
ADHD treatment seeking and adherence can also vary significantly from one community to another. In most Western societies, for example, treatment may include a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, educational support, and the use of approved medications. However, there are other cultures in which other treatments can be considered as opposed to or in combination with the aforementioned approaches, such as traditional medicine, family-based interventions, and herbal therapies. For example, traditional practices such as herbal medicine or acupuncture, can be used to treat some symptoms of ADHD. In other communities, spiritual practices and community support can offer other possibilities. These are approaches that vary based on how different cultures understand health.
Family and a sensitive approach to ADHD management
As we have seen, cultural differences play a role in how families perceive and deal with their own ADHD cases. Cultural expectations about the role of parents, expected behavior in children, and preferred discipline strategies can all affect how families perceive and respond to ADHD. It can be seen as a challenge that needs immediate intervention in cultures where there is a strong emphasis on academic performance, while the response may be different in cultures where the focus is on both social and emotional development.
To provide appropriate treatment for ADHD in a multicultural context, it’s necessary to adopt a culturally sensitive approach. This means recognizing and respecting cultural differences towards ADHD and adapting interventions to be appropriate for each society.
To this end, professionals should be trained in intercultural competence and be aware of their own biases. At the same time, they should use diagnostic tools that are valid and accepted by different cultural groups and consider the beliefs of each society when developing treatment plans for ADHD. It’s also important to involve the family in the treatment process as well as the community, if it’s culturally appropriate.