Level of Participation of Children & Adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at Home, School and Community Settings: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition can restrict children’s participation in everyday activities. It is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, impacting school, home, neighborhood and community and also social functioning. Aims: This study aimed to assess the level of participation in home, school, and community activities among children and adolescents with ADHD, and to find out their sociodemographic characteristics and the associated factors with participation. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 73 participants. Data were collected using a structured socio-demographic questionnaire and the Child and Adolescent Scale of Participation (CASP). Results: The sample consisted of mostly male (83.6%), and within the age 5-7 years group (52.1%), a mean age of 8.05 years. The majority of the participants resided in urban areas (75.3%), and they were regularly attending school (91.8%). The limitation of participation was experienced in each of the CASP areas. Participation at home was largely restricted (43.8%) or very restricted (38.4%) with 84.9% form of very limited participation being the most severe. There was also limited school participation. In general, the participation was hardly evident in the case of most participants (64.4%). Home participation had significant associations with the family type (P = 0.025), community participation with the family size (P= 0.049), school participation with the number of the ADHD medications (P = 0.012), and home/community living activities. Conclusion: Study findings highlight the need for participation-oriented interventions that address environmental supports, family, school and community inclusion strategies to improve meaningful engagement and promote participation in daily life. Keywords: ADHD, CASP, Participation (Home, School & Community), ICF