Differences and Commonalities in Adult Expectations Regarding ADHD Referral

During the process of ADHD referral and intervention, there are often problematic and divisive differences of opinion within the adult team on how best to address the symptoms of ADHD. This study is an action research project interested in identifying areas of agreement and dischord between parents and teachers related to how best to support a child with ADHD. Data was collected through interviews and observations with parents and teachers from a suburban elementary school community. The findings from this study suggest that: 1. Parents tend to view their child as able to make change and, but that they do not have a good understanding of how their child affects others within a classroom. 2. Teachers tend to be preoccupied with how a child with ADHD affects others. 3. Good collaboration between parents and teachers is a goal which both groups aspire towards and 4. Collaboration is the key factor in whether teachers view a child with ADHD as capable of improving in their classroom