Cultural Proficiency

Abstract

Background: Guidelines for assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of ADHD have been drawn from research focused primarily on Caucasian males generating, in part, the need to redress health disparities. Diagnostic criteria may therefore be limited, especially regarding gender differences and other associated cultural, familial, socio-environmental, and individual influences. Objective: To examine how one woman with ADHD managed social, academic, interpersonal, and familial roles and to discuss the need for culturally proficient practice and treatment frameworks that are gender-sensitive to diagnosis and treatment. Method: A case example of a 29-year-old Hispanic woman. Findings: There is a gap in early diagnosis and treatment for some woman and individuals from ethnic minority and diverse groups. Conclusion: Cultural competence in practice and research are critical to mitigate the disparities in accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD among the American population. (J. of Att. Dis. 2010; 13(4) 424-432)