STORIES OF ME: DISABILITY IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT IN PERSONS WITH ADHD

Theoretically, developing a strong sense of ADHD identity, adolescents can combat anxiety and stigma. Combatting anxiety and stigma can support student’s postsecondary success. How can teachers help? The study aims to explore the narratives of disability identity from the adult reflective perspective to identify potential recommendations for teachers. This mixed-methods study collected data through two semi-structured interviews of adults with ADHD, a focus group, and survey data from social media communities. The stories were analyzed for evidence of a sense of identity, pride, and self-esteem. The emerging themes provided recommendations for educators which included the need to foster relationships (teachers with students and peer-to-peer in ADHD communities), teach explicit skills and strategies, and support the needs of families and students to understand and access resources. The implications of the data also included the need to capitalize on the power of community, equip educators to teach disability history, foster disability pride, and build relationships with student