Perceptions of ADHD-Related Behaviours in Trinidad & Tobago and Canada: A Cross-Cultural Study
Abstract
Undiagnosed ADHD is prevalent in the region where Trinidad & Tobago is situated. Children with ADHD are vulnerable to numerous negative outcomes. Parents and teachers are best positioned to identify ADHD-related behaviours in children but can only do so if they associate those behaviours with ADHD. This study investigates their perception of ADHD-related behaviours in children. It examines the hypothesis that these behaviours are more likely to be seen as issues of indiscipline and low motivation rather than a medical or psychological condition. Utilizing multilevel modelling, perceptions of ADHD-related behaviours in Trinidad & Tobago were compared to those in Canada, a country with a more medicalized view of ADHD. Findings indicate that Trinidad & Tobago had higher rates of perceiving ADHD as indiscipline or lack of motivation, which diminished when knowledge was included as a covariate. Targeted psychoeducation could significantly improve the accurate identification of ADHD in Trinidad & Tobago.