Experiences and challenges of parents caring for children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A qualitative study in Dar es salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

Background Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurobehavioral childhood disorder. Children with ADHD are difficult to handle due to the symptoms causing great impairments such as inattention, hyperactivity compared to other childhood mental disorders. Having a child with ADHD is a stressful situation as it impacts the whole family. However, little is known about the experiences and challenges of parents caring for children with ADHD in low and middle-income countries such as Tanzania. Thus, this study explored the experiences and challenges of parents caring for children with ADHD in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods We conducted a qualitative descriptive study involving 16 parents of children with ADHD at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH). We used the purposive sampling technique to obtain the participants. In-depth interviews, using a semi-structured interview guide, were used to collect data. Audio-recorded data were transcribed, translated, and analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results Parents experienced difficulties in handling the children whose level of functioning was impaired due to abnormal and disruptive behaviour such as not being able to follow parental instructions. Psychological problems were also experienced due to caring demands exacerbated by lack of support and stigma from the community. Moreover, there were disruptions in family functioning and social interactions among family members due to the children’s behaviour. Lastly, too much time and family resources spent to fulfil the needs of these children culminated into disruption in economic activities that negatively affected everyday life. Conclusion Parents struggle to meet and cope with care demands posed by children with ADHD. The disruptive nature of ADHD symptoms presents a unique caring challenge different from those experienced with other childhood mental illnesses. To address these challenges, a collaborative approach among key stakeholders such as the government, health care professionals, and non-governmental organizations, is needed.

Experiences of caring for women with cervical cancer: A qualitative study among male partners in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

“…The situation aggravated financial constraints, ruined the family economy and caused further difficulties for participants to cater for the basic needs of their families, as had also been reported in previous studies 56 . Family financial challenges had been reportedly contributing to a delay in the initiation of cervical cancer treatment and interfering with the course of treatment 9,11,57 . As also reported previously, the government and stakeholders, such as charity organizations are key players in easing the accessibility and affordability of health insurance that covers treatment costs and granting financial aid to patients incapable of paying for their medical expenses 56 …”

“…Challenges in sexual relationships were also revealed in a study by Solli et al among male caregivers of cervical cancer patients, and they reported that they received little information from health professionals concerning postcancer sexuality 15 . These sexual and reproductive concerns affect relationships, resulting in emotional stress, harsh treatment, and separation of families, which ultimately complicate cervical cancer treatment, as it has been reported in previous studies 9,58 . Vermeer et al revealed that many cervical cancer patients and their partners experienced sexual dysfunction overly due to psychosexual distress, and participants expressed the need for psychosexual support from the HCPs, but the medical attention was mainly on physical functioning 10 …”

“…Women diagnosed with cervical cancer experience significant life changes including physical suffering due to the disease itself and treatment side effects, emotional distress, and disruptions to various aspects of their socioeconomic lives 9,10 . Hence, it is crucial that they have responsible caregivers who can provide support and assist in coping with the life changes they encounter 9,11,12 . In many African societies including Tanzania, men play a critical role in meeting socioeconomic needs and making health‐seeking decisions for their families.…”

Family skill development for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder behavior problem alleviation model in at-risk preschool children: a mixed methods study

“…Caregivers faced challenges handling children with impaired functioning due to ADHD symptoms. These difficulties present a unique caregiving challenge distinct from other childhood mental illnesses (Ching'oma et al, 2022). Evidence-based parent training programs for preschoolers with ADHD, such as those modifying caring behaviors and improving symptoms and emotional, behavioral and social functioning (Feng et al, 2023), are crucial.…”

Challenges and coping mechanisms of parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a qualitative study

“…For instance, a study showed that South African parents experienced difficulties such as negative emotions, economic problems, inadequate social support, stigma, and extra care giving responsibilities [ 18 ]. Tanzanian parents experienced difficulties in handling children whose level of functioning was impaired due to abnormal and disruptive behaviour such as not being able to follow parental instructions [ 19 ]. They are also faced with psychological problems due to caring demands exacerbated by a lack of support and stigma from the community, disruptions in family functioning and social interactions among family members.…”