ADHD and Family

Many families affected by ADHD will have more than one family member with the condition, and more often than not it is the father and at least one child who have the condition. As there is an acknowledged component of ADHD this is not unusual, and by acknowledging that this dynamic exists it is easier for a family to be organised to remove stress and confrontation.

The stress and confrontation in families affected by ADHD is most often found in the relationships of siblings and the parent/child bonding experience. Expressions of this stress and confrontation can range from verbal disagreements to bullying, and sometimes even to violence. The most damaging element of this situation is the way that members of the family not involved in these confrontations or stresses will be indirectly affected by them. This can lead to family members questioning themselves and their family, often comparing them to other families.

It has also been shown that 20-25% of children with ADHD will also have a sibling with ADHD, and for an individual who does not have ADHD managing children and a partner with ADHD can be a difficult task. The non-ADHD family member will often feel as though they are the glue that keeps the family together and that they are putting in more effort than the rest of the family, and this can lead to further stress and confrontation within the family.

Adult ADHD is known to affect 2-6% of the adult population, and in many cases, it can be beneficial to treat the parent so as to assist in progressing the child’s situation. This will help not only the individuals themselves, but also the dynamics of the family – especially in times of stress and confrontation. By having the ADHD parent provide a strong and positive role model for their children, it will be easier for the situation of the children to be improved.

This is not the case for all families dealing with ADHD. For some the use of structure and good diet can improve family dynamics dramatically, while others have found that using positive outlets and nurturing have contributed to improved family dynamics. It is important to be realistic about families and ADHD, finding a way of dealing with the individuals and their condition, as well as the family dynamic, in a way that achieves a happy family.