Mental Health Provider Experiences Among Juvenile Offenders With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Research has indicated various treatment options available such as medication management or family therapy for juvenile offenders struggling with a diagnosis of, or symptoms of, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Exploring mental health clinicians’ perceptions may provide insight into treatment needed for this population to contribute positively to society. Past researchers refrained from obtaining mental health clinicians’ perspectives on treatment when working with this population. Rational choice theory indicates that individuals examine the costs and benefits of their actions prior to making decisions. Gestalt/feature-intensive processing theory promotes the inclusion of necessary information to help with processing when making decisions. Youth with ADHD struggle due to their inability to think efficiently with all of the information needed to make sound decisions. The purpose of this qualitative study was to interview seven clinicians in the field to explore their perceptions of treatment options that are most beneficial for juvenile offenders struggling with symptoms of, or a diagnosis of, ADHD. Mental health clinicians included in this study were licensed mental health professionals who had provided services to juvenile offenders. A nonprobability sampling format was used. A thematic synthesis was used to report data. Mental health professionals agreed cognitive behavioral therapy when used with person centered therapy was most efficacious with juvenile offenders struggling with ADHD. This study contributes to existing literature and may enhance positive social change initiatives by supporting opportunities for juvenile offenders to have therapy that assists them in becoming more productive and contributing members of society