Table 4 Parent beliefs about ADHD and attitudes about medication use

Physical condition

It’s really no different than somebody having something like cancer. They need to be treated.

… you have to wear glasses because you have poor eyesight, if you’re diabetic, you need insulin.

It’s almost as if there’s a cloud in the head, in his head that prevents his knowledge from coming out….

Attitudes about medication use

Theme

Last resort

I always said that it’s a last resort, OK? And I mean other things I’ve tried, nothing’s y’know, nothing has helped.

I’ve been very judgmental about the whole medication thing before whenever …someone had mentioned their child had been on y’know Ritalin, I’d be like horrified.

But yet we’re here trying it one more time, ‘cause he’s not doing well without it.

Learning aid

I explained to him that he is very bright and…., for him to uh reach his potential.

I presented the medication to him as being a learning tool, …it might make things easier for him.

I guess when you see that your child has potential and they’re not fulfilling their potential …you sort of realize [medication] is necessary.

Adverse effects

…Like you’re giving this child medication, you’re losing…your child--the personality, the qualities. …“Oh what am I doing?”

I guess part of me worries about any possible long-term damage that it can cause?

I don’t know how it’s [medication]going to affect him in the future? I don’t know how it will affect his kids.