Do Fathers Know Best? Associations between Paternal Parenting and Effective Management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms

Abstract

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by impulsivity, hyperactivity, and difficulty sustaining attention. Children diagnosed with ADHD experience impediments in their academics, maneuvering household experiences, and socializing with other children. Behavior problems are also common. While literature emphasizes maternal involvement in treating symptoms of ADHD in children, there is a gap regarding the paternal role. The purpose of this study is to explore the methods of discipline previously utilized by fathers with their children diagnosed with ADHD and the adult child’s current psychological well-being. Results provide a preliminary exploration of fathers’ roles in parenting their children with ADHD. Future research should focus on the continued examination paternal influences on psychological well- being of individuals with ADHD.