An evaluation of a stress management intervention for parents of children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the experiences of parents’ participation in a stress management programme for parents with children diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It was expected that the programme would lead to improved parent-child relationships and more positive child behaviour. The qualitative, phenomenological approach included thematic content analysis. The stress management group consisted of 8 parents, 5 mothers and three fathers, who met for 9 consecutive weeks. There were nine sessions focusing on stress, education, resources, problem solving skills, cognitive restructuring, communication skills, self care skills, behaviour management and wrap-up respectively. Process evaluation consisted of a session-by-session description of the programme. Summative evaluation consisted of an appreciative inquiry questionnaire. Additional experiential data was obtained from the ADHD children of participants via an interview with the researcher. The results of the study suggested that the programme was effective. Parents experienced the programme as bringing about empowerment, group cohesion, cognitive restructuring, behaviour modification, growth, development and change. Children viewed their parents as having become more relaxed, approachable, inclusive and loving. An independent psychologist evaluated the programme positively in terms of its quality, effectiveness, flexibility, adaptability and comprehensiveness. While widely acknowledged, the difficulties of parents of children with ADHD are seldom the focus of intervention. The inclusion of a stress management counselling component for parents of ADHD children is recommended as a valuable adjunctive strategy in the overall comprehensive management of ADHD. Keywords: Stress management, children with ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, parents - ADHD