The social behaviour of teenagers with ADHD amongst their peer group : a parent’s perspective

Abstract

In adolescence, relationships with peers are crucial because during these years, teenagers become more independent from their families and their relationships with peers becomes a major part of their identity (Richards, 2017). Teenagers with ADHD struggle to sustain friendships with peers, are more likely to be bullied, have fewer friends, and to encounter social denial during their teenage years than teenagers without ADHD (Seay, 2017). Teenagers with ADHD seemed to bond more with teenagers who have ADHD or other social difficulties (Blachman & Hinshaw 2002). The aim of this study is to understand better how adolescents with ADHD are experiencing friendships and peer relationships. Such experiences were investigated through a parent’s perspective. This study adopted a qualitative research design, through the administration of six semi-structured interviews. A Thematic Analysis of the data resulted in twenty-four subthemes, grouped into six main themes. The main themes were: (1) Attitudes about ADHD diagnosis, (2) ADHD symptoms influencing social behaviour, (3) Peer relationships (4) Choice of peers and hangouts, (5) Parental support, and (6) Maltese social perceptions on ADHD. According to the parents, ADHD symptoms such as inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity affect the child’s social behaviour with their peers. Findings showed that teenagers with ADHD felt they could be themselves around individuals who accepted, and preferred to sustain a relationship with their peer through online communication. Moreover, findings showed that the parental involvement was crucial in supporting their social behaviour. Finally, results also showed that more social awareness on ADHD is needed.