Knowledge and Misperception of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) among the Primary School Teachers of Vadodara District, Gujarat, India

Abstract

Background and Aim: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorders of childhood. Teachers can play a key role in identifying and supporting students with ADHD. In order to fulfill this important role, teachers must have explicit knowledge about ADHD. Teachers are seen as one of the most valuable sources of information concerning the referral and diagnosis of ADHD. They also have the responsibility for creating an environment conducive to academic, social, and emotional success for children with ADHD. This study was aimed at assessing the knowledge and misperceptions of ADHD of primary school teachers in the Vadodara district of Gujarat, India. Materials & Methods: Total 491 school teachers participated in the study. The Knowledge of Attention Deficit Disorder Scale (KADDS) along with a demographic questionnaire was used as the survey instruments to collect data. Descriptive statistics and correlation tests were used to analyze the data. Result: Results indicated that teachers’ knowledge of ADHD was insufficient. A significant difference in knowledge was found between Urban & Rural (0.00429); Gujarati & English medium school teachers (p=0.0013); Government & private school teachers (p=0.001). Conclusion: Lack of knowledge & prevalence of misperception is obvious in primary school teachers who are the first responders of such patients (kids). Improving teachers’ standards & understanding can help significantly in early diagnosis & improving the outcome.