A mixed-methods study of Indian mothers assessing the effect of the lockdown on the understanding of ADHD in their child and the burden experienced

Abstract

Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed developmental disorders and is common among referrals to child guidance clinics. Aim: This study aimed to study the impact of the lockdown during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the mother's understanding of ADHD and the burden faced by her. Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods design with a combination of a qualitative and quantitative approach was adopted. An in-depth in-person semi-structured interview with the participant's mother was conducted. The qualitative and quantitative part of the study consisted of burden assessment by the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale. The responses were transcribed, and themes were identified. Results: As far as understanding the disorder was concerned, the major themes identified were “Knew about the child's problems from teachers but online schooling made me see the child's issues in person” and “Knew about the illness but more time led to bonding and understanding the child.” When questioned about the burden faced, the major themes that evolved were “Increased exhaustion taking care of a child 24/7” and “Increased burden as one felt angry and irritated with the child, the school, and the family.” The Zarit caregiver questionnaire revealed a statistically significant difference in the burden of care before and after the pandemic, with a greater number of mothers falling in the mild to moderate and severe categories of burden. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic increased the caregiver burden for mothers of children with ADHD. Their understanding of their child's disorder increased significantly as they could spend more time and devise different ways and means of helping their child in academics and other areas.