The Internet Forums as Tool for Coping and Consultation of Mothers’ with Their Child with ADHD

Abstract

The internet forums become an inseparable part for communication, information and support for parents with a child with special needs. With the rapid development of the technology, the almost unlimited access to the websites, more and more parents are seeking for online answers regarding concerns and dilemmas regarding their child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. The current study, using a qualitative study, examined 190 posts, regarding parents experience with a child with ADHD. Researchers coded the internet posts, and six main categories were derived: medical treatment; diagnosis aspects; recommendations for doctors; behavior challenges; schools and academic achievement; seeking for encouragement and support. The findings focused on the dilemmas and the enormous need for a support group among parents, suggesting planning specific online interventions with parents, in order to provide them useful social and behavioral tools, and to strength and improve their self perception and perceived well-being.