title: Explanatory models and help-seeking behavior for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among a cohort of postsecondary students.
abstract: The authors present findings from a qualitative descriptive study that explored how a diverse ethnic group of postsecondary students diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) conceptualized their condition and how this conceptualization shaped their efforts to seek help. Kleinman's explanatory model, the organizing framework, called for participants to describe the etiology, symptom onset, pathophysiology, course, and treatment of ADHD. Twenty-seven participants from four academic institutions took part in the study. A common explanatory model of ADHD was not shared; however, gender and age differences were apparent. These finding have implications for nurses when providing culturally appropriate care to individuals with ADHD in their practice settings.
authors.affiliation: Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA. rlw26@drexel.edu
authors.forename: Roberta
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Waite
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Tran
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003376:Counseling; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D016487:Parenting / Q000523:psychology; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology; D055815:Young Adult