Abstract
M.Ed.
Attention -Deficit/ Hyperactivity disorder (AD /HD) is a diagnostic label which
is used by more and more professional people to identify children with
behavioral and scholastic problems. Although the AD/HD label may be very
useful for communication between professional people, it could lead to
generalisations and stereotyping as certain qualities are granted to a person on
account of the label that is attached to him without taking him as an individual
into account. The labelling of people may even result in changed perceptions
and behaviour towards the person who is labelled. This study investigates the
mother's perceptions of her AD/HD-labelled child in order to ascertain the
effect of this label on the way she perceives, disciplines and handles her child.
The study commenced with a theoretical framework in which AD/HD as a
diagnostic label is discussed. The origin and development of the label, as well
as the uses and abuse thereof, is discussed. Altemative views on AD/HD are
also outlined.
The theoretical framework is followed by a chapter conceming the design of the
research, substantiating the choice of format, methods of data collection and
analysis. A qualitative design was chosen on account of its explorative,
descriptive and contextual nature. Data was collected by means of in depth
interviews. The data was analysed by using a phenomenological approach.
Literature was used to compare and complement the data.
The data is reported in the following chapter. Examples of raw data from
transcriptions are presented. Finally, the consolidated data is interpreted.
The results of this study showed that although mothers' perceptions and
expectations of their AD /HD-child vary considerably, they correlate with the
amount of information which is communicated during the diagnosis. Mothers
who are treated with empathy and understanding and who receive more
information on the meaning of the diagnosis, tend to perceive their child and
his abilities in a more positive way ..
The labelling of the child as AD/HD results in an improved relationship
between mother and child. Mothers also tend to be more protective of and
involved with their child to such an extent that it may negatively affect other
relationships in the family. Labelling also influences the mother's perception
of herself, because neither she nor the child can be blamed for his unruly
behaviour and/ or academic failure.
The study concludes with the thought that professional people doing the
labelling should work through the content and meaning of the label with the
parents in order to help parents form a realistic perception of their AD/HD child.