A master thesis from Aalborg University
At have en ADHD-diagnose, som ung i en tid, hvor diagnosedebatten raser
[Having an ADHD diagnosis as a young person in a time when the debate about the diagnosis is raging.]
Forfatter(e)
Semester
4. semester
Uddannelse
Udgivelsesår
2023
Afleveret
2023-06-09
Antal sider
53 pages
Abstract
Background: ADHD is being discussed more than ever before, and its validity is frequently challenged in the public debate. Existing research reveals a gap in understanding how the skeptic portrayal of ADHD can have an impact on individuals with an ADHD diagnosis. This study aims to explore the influence of interpersonal relationships and societal discussion on the self-image of individuals living with ADHD. Theoretical framework: The study is centered upon both psychological and sociological theories. The social-psychological view is presented by Henri Tajfel, Marilynn Brewer & Wendi Gardner. Whereas the sociological theories are presented by Anthony Giddens, Ove Kaj Pedersen, Anders Petersen, and Ulrich Beck. Method: 1:1qualitiative interviews with three young participants diagnosed with ADHD. The data was analyzed based on the principles of thematic analysis, defined by Braun and Clark (2006). The study used Vivien Burrs’ definition of social constructionism as an ontological position. Results: The self-image of young people diagnosed with ADHD is not directly influenced by the negative public debate. It can have an indirect negative impact on the individual diagnosed with ADHD if individuals in close relation to them have gained a negative impression through societal debate and question the diagnosis, thereby posing a threat to the self-image of the individual with ADHD. For the participants in this study, receiving an ADHD diagnosis has been positive, as it has provided an opportunity for a deeper understanding of their own challenges, how to manage them, and validation that the difficulties they experienced were real. Conclusions: The study’ findings help understanding how receiving an ADHD diagnosis has a positive impact on individuals who have experienced difficulties due to ADHD. Despite the societal debate, it is evident that the challenges the individual faced prior to diagnosis had such impact that the diagnosis became a powerful tool in managing these. External opinions, including the societal debate, are not as important for the individual as long as they do not hinder them from taking control of the challenges posed by ADHD. During the process it lowers the negative thoughts caused by the ADHD symptoms and therefore brings down the prominent and central role it had in their self-image. Therefore, as a society, it is worth reflecting on whether the ongoing debate is sufficiently nuanced to provide a comprehensive understanding of what it is like to be an individual diagnosed with ADHD in a world that debates their disability and furthermore extensively questions its existence.
Emneord
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