NARRATIVE INQUIRY ON A PARENT

COPING UP WITH A CHILD WITH

ATTENTION DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

A Research Paper Presented to the Senior High School Department of the

University of Cebu – Banilad Campus

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for

Practical Research 1 (Qualitative)

Submitted by:
CRISTOBAL, KIRSTEIN MAE
SABELLANO, BERNADETH MAE
ALVAREZ, JOHN CARLOS
ABAPO, RAYMOND DAVID
MAHUSAY, JASTINE MARIE

March 2019
 LETTER OF APPROVAL

This research paper entitled NARRATIVE INQUIRY ON A PARENT

COPING UP WITH A CHILD WITH ATTENTION
DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER prepared and submitted by the
following researchers: Kirstein Mae Cristobal, Bernadeth Mae Sabellano,
John Carlos Alvarez, Raymond David Abapo, and Jastine Marie Mahusay
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for Practical Research 1
(Qualitative), has been examined and is recommended for oral
examination.

PANEL OF EXAMINERS

Approved by the Committee on Oral Examination

BEEJAY OLITRES, LPT

Chairman/Technical Expert

RICHARD ARDENIO, LPT DIANA ROSE TAMPUS, LPT

Expert/Censor Expert/Censor

ROSANNA V. MAHILUM, LPT

Research Adviser

Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for

PRACTICAL RESEARCH 1 on 23rd day of March 2019.

BEE JAY OLITRES, LPT MALEEN GRAFILO – ORDIZ, LPT, MAT

Program Research Coordinator Principal, Senior High School

i
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Research Title: NARRATIVE INQUIRY ON A PARENT COPING UP

WITH A CHILD WITH ATTENTION
DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

Letter of Approval ------------------------------------------------------------------------ i

Abstract

Chapter 1: Introduction ------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

Chapter 2: Review of Related Literature ----------------------------------------------- 4

Chapter 3: Methodology ----------------------------------------------------------------- 10

Design

Setting/Environment ----------------------------------------------------------- 11

Respondents/Participants ------------------------------------------------------ 11

Data Collection -------------------------------------------------------------------11

Data Analysis ---------------------------------------------------------------------12

Ethical Considerations -----------------------------------------------------------13

Researcher’s Reflexivity --------------------------------------------------------13

Chapter 4: Data Presentation, Results, and Interpretation ---------------------------14

Thematic Unit Analysis

Chapter 5: Synthesis --------------------------------------------------------------------- 21

Summary of Findings

Conclusions ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 23

Recommendations --------------------------------------------------------------- 24

Works Cited ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25

Acknowledgment
Appendix – A

Letter of Permission to Conduct Research Interview (Transmittal Letter)

Appendix – B

Research Interview Consent Form

Appendix – C

Interview Questionnaires

Appendix – D

Thematic Analysis Table

Appendix – E

Parent’s Consent for Oral Defense

 NARRATIVE INQUIRY ON A PARENT

COPING UP WITH A CHILD WITH

ATTENTION DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

By

Kirstein Mae L. Cristobal, Bernadeth Mae A. Sabellano, John Carlos V. Alvarez

Raymond David M. Abapo and Jastine Marie S. Mahusay

ABSTRACT

The study explored on how a parent responds and copes up with the
particular challenges in raising a child with ADHD. The participant was
interviewed regarding these particular problems – the experiences of being a
parent of a child with ADHD, raising a child with ADHD, the difficulties/struggles
the child experiences, the challenge faced as a parent of a child with ADHD, and
the advices or suggestions towards other parents having a child with ADHD. The
research methodology is used to collect data and specific procedures or
techniques used to identify, select, analyze and process about a topic. The
research design used was narrative study that focuses on the lives of individuals
as told through their own stories. Research setting can be seen as physical, social
and cultural site in which the researcher conducts the study. The participant is a
person who participates to answer some questions and the target of observation
by researchers. Lastly, instruments such as audio recorder are used to collect the
data, and the data collection and procedure. The findings provides the factors
and symptoms of ADHD, lifestyle changes, responsibility of a parent, parenting
strategies, health condition(s) of the child, talents of the child, studies,
achievements, child’s fears and the usage of technology. Thus, after knowing the
findings on how a parent copes up and responds in raising a child with ADHD,
parenting strategies were introduced. Findings suggest a need to spread out the
knowledge about parenting strategies for them to cope up and could be able to
respond with the particular challenges in raising a child with ADHD.

Keywords: ADHD, disorder, narrative, coping up, experiences, struggles/difficulties,

challenges, advices, factors and symptoms, lifestyle changes,
responsibility, parenting strategies, health condition, talents, studies,
achievements, fear, technology, and respond
 Chapter 1

Introduction

In a study conducted by Low (2018), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder (ADHD) is a sufficiently-documented neurological disorder which a

human’s brain develops and works differently than other individual. In addition,

ADHD is a lifelong disorder for most people. Also, it is the lack of attentiveness,

not behaving in responsible ways, unable to control their impulses and forgetting

important information. According to Schwartz (2013), ADHD is one of the most

common mental conditions of children and teens that can continue to adulthood.

To be diagnosed with ADHD, they happen to face more challenges in different

area; it affects how they perform in school, at home and in everyday life. It

hinders in their getting along with their social relationships. Specifically, their

ability to communicate well with other people, including kids at their age,

classmates and strangers.

Global Perspectives on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

by Bergey, Filipe, Conrad, and Singh (2018) is the first book to examine how this

expanding public health concern is diagnosed and treated in 16 different

countries. In some, readers learn over 10 percent of school-aged children and

adolescents are diagnosed with ADHD. Other countries focus in medicating

children with ADHD; while others focus on giving parents information.

Furthermore, this book explains how those distinctions shape medical

interventions and guidelines, filling a much-needed gap by examining ADHD on

an international scale. ADHD Society of the Philippines (2017) provided some

1
 statistics showing the case of locality; 80 percent of adolescents have the

symptoms, 60 percent of adults show the symptoms, 40-50 percent of children

with ADHD have learning disabilities, 30-50 percent of children engage in

disorderly and exhibits signs of anti-social behavior, 35 percent of children with

ADHD do not finish high school, 25 percent of children with ADHD often fight

with other kids, 20-25 percent of children experience hyperactivity, and 3-5

percent of the world population has ADHD.

Like any other disorders, the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder (ADHD) can be expressed differently in different children. For some, it

may occur very mild and can be easily controlled, but for others, the symptoms

are quite serious and disruptive. For another, it may be a great problem with

impulsivity and hyperactivity. While for others, it may be about the ability to pay

attention. In addition, two-thirds of people diagnosed with ADHD have shown

other occurring disorders such as: depression, learning disabilities, anxiety, and

autism spectrum disorders are just some (Eusebio, 2010).

People with ADHD are mistakenly believed that they are too unfocused to

achieve anything. Example is Albert Einstein, in his case he was known to be

forgetful, is often unaware of his surroundings and basically lives with his own

rules. In short, he was a typical case of ADHD. Yet he was the most influential

physicist of the 20th century and even developed the theory of relativity (Sonny,

2013). The more parents and their child understands about — its causes,

symptoms, and treatment— the better. Learning about ADHD will help them to

2
 be more comfortable in their daily life. Also, they will be able to know

that there is nothing to be ashamed of.

There are many studies presenting how children with ADHD act in the

academe or home, with this the researchers are motivated to investigate how

actual parents manage and take care children with ADHD, furthermore this study

aims to determine the following, the experiences of a parent in raising a child with

ADHD, the difficulties/struggles of a child with ADHD, the capability of a parent

in raising a child with ADHD, the parenting strategies in raising a child with

ADHD, the life expectancy for a child with ADHD, the type of communication

strategy that is best used and effective in communicating a child with ADHD, and

the types of class or programs a child with ADHD enrolled.

The goal of this study is to share relative experiences to other parents on

how to manage and cope up with their child having Attention Deficit

Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). For the future researchers, they may use this as

their guide in finding information to widen their awareness about this study. Also,

this research aims to broaden their understanding about a child with ADHD.

3
 Chapter 2

Review of Related Literature

Nature of ADHD

Tredgold (1908) described children as high-graded feeble-minds, caused

by mild brain damage that leads them to have ADHD-like anti-social behavior.

The primary characteristics of ADHD according to Robinson, Segal and Smith

(2018) are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. People with ADHD have

lesser symptoms as they age but some teenagers continue having major symptoms

that distracts them to daily functioning. The main features of ADHD in teenagers

may include distracting others, restlessness, easily gets bored, and trouble in

staying quiet when needed. Symptoms can range from serious to critical.

Robinson et al. (2018) described the Primary Characteristics of Children with

ADHD as the following:

1. Inattentiveness Signs and Symptoms of ADHD (Difficulty in Paying

Attention)

Kids quickly tune out when their task is repetitive or boring. Since

kids with ADHD are having trouble in concentrating, they usually need a

peaceful environment to stay calm and focused.

2. Hyperactivity Signs and Symptoms of ADHD

Kids with ADHD signs are always moving, even when they are

forced to be calm/still which is very hard for them. Another signs of

having ADHD are the tapping of foot, shaking of legs, or fidgeting. There

4
 are also signs such as getting bored easily, does not listen, having

difficulties in following instructions, remembering, relaxing, staying still,

organizing and planning, and they also frequently misplace items. They

also talk too much and are high-tempered.

3. Impulsivity Signs and Symptoms of ADHD (Acting without thinking)

Kids interrupt conversations, invade people’s space/boundary, and

also ask overly personal questions. They are moody and overreact

emotionally.

According to Mayo Clinic (2017), people with ADHD have lesser

symptoms as they age but some teenagers continue having major symptoms that

distracts them to daily functioning. The main features of ADHD in adults may

include distracting others, restlessness, easily gets bored, and trouble in staying

quiet when needed. Symptoms can range from serious to critical. Teenage ADHD

symptoms may include: disorganization and problems prioritizing, problems in

focusing on a single task, having trouble in multitasking, poor planning, excessive

activity or restlessness, getting easily irritated, having frequent mood swings,

having problems in following instructions and completing tasks and having

trouble in coping with stress. The signs and symptoms of Inattentiveness ADHD

is that kids quickly tune out when their task is repetitive or boring. Since kids with

ADHD are having trouble in concentrating, they usually need a peaceful

environment to stay calm and focused. As further stated by Mayo Clinic (2017),

the signs and symptoms of Hyperactivity ADHD, these kids with ADHD are

always moving, even when they are forced to be calm/still which is very hard for

5
 them. Another signs of having this kind of ADHD are the tapping of foot,

shaking of legs, or fidgeting. There are also signs such as getting bored easily,

doesn’t licccnnsten, having difficulties in following instructions, remembering,

relaxing, staying still, organizing and planning, and they also frequently misplace

items. They also talk too much and are high-tempered. Lastly, for the Signs and

Symptoms of Impulsivity ADHD are kids interrupting conversations, invade

people’s space/boundary, and also ask overly personal questions. They are moody

and overreact emotionally.

Causes of ADHD

National Institute of Mental Health or NIMH (2016) stated that ADHD

may be caused by genes, environmental or non-genetic factors such as: brain

injuries, low birth weight and mother having vices during pregnancy, like

cigarette smoking, drinking alcohol, using of drugs and exposure to

environmental toxins. Scientists are currently studying the causes and factors to

find ways on how to reduce the chances of a child having ADHD. Since the

causes and factors for ADHD are unknown, scientists have theorized that genetics

plays an important role in manifesting ADHD in children (Centers for Disease

Control & Prevention, n.d.).

Parenting Strategies of ADHD

According to FamilyDoctor (2017), as children grow older, symptoms of

ADHD often get better. It stated that hyperactivity signs usually stop during the

late teenage years. But children with ADHD continue to be having mood swings,

6
being high-tempered, getting easily distracted and retaining their habit in being

disobedient/irresponsible. Children with ADHD need more clear expectations.

The family might change their home life a bit such as helping their child make

schedules, simple house rules, giving instructions clearly to be easily understood,

rewarding good behaviors by spoiling them, monitoring the child all the time,

watching the child around his/her friends, and setting his/her homework time.

Keeping in touch with the child’s teacher and recognizing the efforts done by the

child, not the grades he/she made. Last is by counseling, it is very helpful

especially to the child with ADHD for them to focus on their activities in home

and in school.

Distinguished People with ADHD

As mentioned, people with ADHD are creative and intelligent. They are

good thinkers and see solutions that others could not. Here are some successful

people that are diagnosed with ADHD: Albert Einstein (physicist), Michael

Jordan (athlete), Stevie Wonder (musician), Jim Carrey (comedian / actor), and

Ansel Adams (photographer).These successful people moved beyond the

challenges of ADHD, they were able to control and developed strategies for self-

regulation. They demonstrate that having ADHD does not mean they could not be

successful, always doom and gloom (Austin, n.d.).

Social Challenges of Children with ADHD

Children with ADHD tend to have bad socializing skills. According to

Kennedy-Moore (2015), more than half of the children with ADHD are disliked

7
 by their peers. The peers get annoyed by their impulsive actions,

hyperactivity, and aggressiveness or combined types of ADHD characteristics.

But if we focus on the bright side, children with ADHD are very passionate and

creative about their interests. Their energy can be entertaining and appealing.

How Children with ADHD Work In an Academe

Being in a classroom can be a challenging and difficult place for a child

with ADHD. Each child's brain functions differently, so each could look different

in the class. They exhibit different symptoms such as - some bounce off the walls,

some daydreams constantly, others cannot be still and cannot follow rules (Segal

& Melinda, 2019).

Treatment of ADHD

According to Hasan (2017), the treatment for ADHD is not only medicine

but also behavioral therapy. This is to help kids develop their social, emotional,

and planning skills; another treatment is parent coaching. It could help them find

the best ways to respond to behavior difficulties. He also stated school support

could also help kids with ADHD enjoy and do well in school. The right treatment

help kids with ADHD improve. Parents and teachers can help younger kids to get

better at controlling their attention, behavior and emotions.

Gap of Literature

The aim of the study is to determine the following: the experiences of a

parent in raising a child with ADHD, the difficulties/struggles of a child with

8
ADHD, the capability of a parent in raising a child with ADHD, the parenting

strategies in raising a child with ADHD, the life expectancy for a child with

ADHD, the type of communication strategy that is best used and effective in

communicating a child with ADHD, and the types of class or programs a child

with ADHD is enrolled. Despite a lot of literature being written in the area, there

are remaining gaps and unanswered questions. There has been a little work in

detailing the life expectancy for a child with ADHD and what are the programs a

child must attend or enroll to. Such questions were not specified.

9
 Chapter 3

Methodology

This chapter presents the research methodology of a qualitative research

on how a parent copes up and responds in raising a child with Attention –

Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This is a narrative study wherein the

researchers discovered the experiences of a parent living with a child with

ADHD. This chapter describes the research design, research setting, the

participant, the method that was implemented to maintain validity and reliability

of the instruments, the instruments used to collect the data, and the data collection

procedure. Narrative study is the appropriate design to use in this qualitative

research.

Research Design

The researchers used the narrative study. It is the appropriate research

design to be used because it focuses on the life experiences of a parent in raising a

child with ADHD. Kappa (2010) describes narrative research as enabling the

researchers to explore the meanings of human action and phenomena constructed

in narratives. The design is preferred because it is concerned with answering such

as who, how, what, which, when and where. Creswell (2014) stated a research

design is a set of strategies and procedures utilized in collecting and studying the

measures of the variable laid out in the research problem. This is also a

framework that is created by researchers to seek the answers to research

questions.

10
Research Setting

This study was conducted someplace in Cebu, in a small neighboring

island of Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines. Our respondent was living in an

apartment. When the researchers went to the area, there were so many hotels and

other buildings. The houses of the locals residing were all cramped. They

conducted their study there because they have found a respondent necessary for

the study. It is there that a respondent was willing to be interviewed and since

there was no other options and time to find anymore respondents to be

interviewed.

Research Participant

The research participant of the study was a mother of a child with ADHD.

She is 41 years old and a housewife. The father of the child with ADHD is

working as a seaman. There was only one participant in this study. The

researchers chose her as the participant because she was the most qualified to

answer the questions. The mother knew the child more than other people do. She

was with him from the moment her child with ADHD was born until now. The

number of participant was enough. Her answers proved the credibility of our

research such as the environmental factors a mother faces during her pregnancy.

She answered all the gathered questions by the researchers.

Data Collection

This study made use of semi-structured interview to obtain trustworthiness

of results. According to Cohen and Crabtree (2006), it is best used when there are

11
no more chances in interviewing other people. It is a research method commonly

used in social sciences. This is beneficial for the researchers in having an

interview guide prepared. Another thing about semi-structured interview is that it

is open. Follow-up questions are frequent in this structure because of the ideas

that will flow freely and openly during the interview session. Data Collection

according from Research Methodology (2019), it is the means of gathering

information from all the reliable sources and respondents to seek answers from

the research problem. In this part of the study, the researchers aim to achieve the

main goal of the study which is to share relative experiences to other parents on

how to manage and cope up when having a child with ADHD.

Data Analysis

According to Tiwari (2018), transcription is an integral process that

enables to analyze and interpret information. To read text that is precise and

concise as well as understandable. There are five phases in Data Analysis which

are; (a) reading, familiarizing data by understanding and transcribing the

responses of the participant; (b) formulating the significant statements; (c)

generating the formulated meanings from the significant statements; (d)

pinpointing, examining and recording patterns within the data and; (e) allowing

the validation of the results following a peer checking process and analysis by the

participant if possible.

12
Ethical Considerations

In this section, the researchers must always consider the security if the

background of the participant. It is the responsibility of the researchers to protect

the participant. During the interview, the researchers used audio recording. It is

the responsibility of the researchers to keep the background of the participant

confidential in any cases unless permitted by the participant. The researchers

ensured that this study will not affect their lives.

Researcher’s Reflexivity

The study employed the audio recording session and peer checking

method to attest the validity and reliability of the data gathered from the

interview. According to Al-Yateem (2012), it is of importance that the interview

is efficient and that the data collected are enough and as accurate as possible to

reflect to the situation that is being studied. So that by the time the data is

organized and discussed, the data will be accurate, credible and valid enough to

answer the researchers’ problems. Peer checking is used by researchers to help the

study become more accurate, credible, and valid (Schwartz-Shea, 2006). In this

way, the researchers may be united to pursue in finding more accurate, credible

and valid answers to satisfy their curiosity in knowing how a parent copes up with

a child with ADHD.

13
 Chapter 4

Data Presentation, Results, and Interpretation

This chapter presents the responses of the narrative study on how a parent

responds and copes up in raising a child with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity

Disorder (ADHD). The purpose of the narrative study is to explore on how a

parent copes up and responds with the particular challenges in raising a child with

ADHD. In addition, the researchers wanted to share relative experiences to other

parents on how to manage and cope up with their child with ADHD. With the use

of thematic unit analysis, the researchers were able to present results and

interpretations based on the responses of the participant. This chapter provides the

a) Factors and Symptoms of ADHD, b) Lifestyle Changes, c) Responsibility as a

parent, d) Parenting Strategies, e) Health Condition of the Child, f) Talents of the

Child, g) Ambition of the Child, h) Studies, i) Achievements, j) Child’s fears, and

k) Technology Influenced.

Interpretation

1. Factors and Symptoms of ADHD

Based on the data gathered by the researchers, some symptoms of

the child that the participant observed were – the child cannot maintain

eye contact, has high memory retention, being hyperactive, sleeps late at

night, and does not mingle with others. The characteristic the child

obtained was hyperactivity. When the participant was pregnant, the

participant often saw special children and claimed to be emotional and

14
 sensitive, roaming around, becoming hyperactive, sleeps late at night,

becoming picky when it comes to food and having a hard time especially

since the husband was at the sea, working. ADHD is actually innate.

According to Mersch (2019), the symptoms of ADHD are usually

observed such as squirms in seat, run often which is inappropriate, depart

from the classroom when remaining seated is anticipated and cannot play

in spare moments inaudibly.

2. Lifestyle Changes

Based on the data gathered, the lifestyle of the participant changed.

Being a parent of a child, most especially raising a child with disorder is a

huge responsibility and takes a lot of determination. Having a hyperactive

child, who keeps roaming around, sleeps late at night, becoming picky on

food, is exhausting. Despite the stressful experiences of being a parent

with a child with ADHD, the participant was eager to adjust to

parenthood. Based on the data gathered, the participant feels emotional on

having a child with ADHD. As stated by the A.D.D. Resource Center

(2016), parents with a child with ADHD puts up stress in parents,

malcontented in parenting role and challenging in parents’ perception.

3. Responsibility as a Parent

The participant shows parenthood, more likely, motherhood. The

participant was extremely happy the moment the first child (with ADHD)

was born. The participant told us that all mothers are happy having us as

15
 their child. The participant stated that in order to help the child and

raise the child properly, the family must only show love, prevent family

quarrels, but if it cannot be avoided, do not let the child know that there

are quarrels happening. In addition, befriend the child. Do not just only act

as a parent of the child, act also as their best friend. Moreover, do not

depend on the helper of the house. And lastly, discipline the child and let

the child understand things or matters that should be lessen or prevented.

As stated by Lyness (n.d.), parenting is the most important and manner of

doing something may effective or inadequate. Parent of a child with

ADHD can be able to do things positively and discipline with a purpose.

Spending time together, talk about some important matter that having this

disorder is not the child’s fault and focus on teaching the child one at a

time and praise the child’s effort.

4. Parenting Strategies

Based on the gathered data, the participant responded some of the

strategies the participant performed. As stated, the participant only showed

love to the child, prevent the child to see any conflicts at home, taught the

child on what’s good and bad, disciplined the child, and taught the child

on what contentment is. As claimed by Smith (2018), a parent can help the

child in dealing with challenges and brings up positive energy in any

situations. With patience, love, lots of support and compassion can make

your home stable and happy.

16
5. Health Condition(s) of the Child

When the child was still at a very young age, the child usually

experienced fevers & “luas”. The greatest challenge that happened to the

child was when there was pulips in the large intestine. But based on the

gathered data, illness was frequently experienced by the child before.

Now, he rarely get illnesses. According to Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention (n.d.), having other illnesses or other conditions of a child with

ADHD give more challenges to a parent and a child. It is important to

screen the child to a doctor for other disorders or illnesses.

6. Talents of the Child

When asked about the talents, the participant noticed that the child

with ADHD is a music lover. The child knew how to sing, play

instruments especially drums, and has high memory retention. The

researchers were amazed on what they heard. According to The National

Research Center (n.d.), most of the child diagnosed with ADHD are

creative and have talented potential. All children with ADHD are highly

creative that exhibit the signs of hyperactivity.

7. Ambition of the Child

It is so inspiring for a child with special needs, dreaming of what

the child wanted to be. Based on the gathered data, the ambition of the

child is becoming a teacher in the near future.

17
8. Studies

The participant responded that at the age of three, the child has

already started studying. But the child was being referred to a SPED class

when he reached Grade two. As it was stated, the child studies well. The

child could easily cope up with the studies. But when the school paper

works are distributed, the child only shows his passed scores and the failed

scores were thrown away. According to Loe and Feldman (2007), a child

with ADHD is associated with poor academic and educational outcomes.

A child with this disorder is associated with poor reading, and grades but

have increased grade retention.

9. Achievements

When the researchers asked if the child was an honor student, the

participant responded that the child only received achievements or awards

like most behaved and most friendly. As stated by Sunderhaft (n.d.), for

children with ADHD, may receive achievement but not totally what is

expected. Sometimes, there is an increase in academic demands.

10. Child’s Fears

The participant narrated that the child is afraid of darkness.

Moreover, the reason why the child does not mingle with others is because

the child is afraid of being bullied. The child has experienced being

bullied at school, most especially boys. As claimed by the American

18
 Academy of Pediatrics (n.d.), children often experience fear, guilt,

and irritability in some situations like when someone bullied the child and

got noticed by a teacher, parent or peer. In addition, anxiety is somewhat

connected with ADHD.

11. Technology Influencing the Child with ADHD

Technology has shown big impacts to the child’s life. The

researchers wanted a data about technology that presents its advantages

and what are its bad effects to the child.

a. Advantages

With the use of the technologies, the way of communicating

with others is not that difficult. The participant and the child

communicate with each other through chatting because the child could

not communicate well-verbally. Moreover, since the child does not

have friends (other than the family), playing video games was the

child’s leisure time. According to Baumgartner (2018), the digital

media can benefit the child with ADHD. Stored notes in easy access

format, through technology can get information that can also bring up

a child’s creativity, and ability to think. It also provides different

applications that recommends for educational games targeting reading,

math problem solving, emotional regulation and relaxation. A child

with ADHD tends to have a difficulty in managing their emotions.

19
 Technology can also have stimulating effects and can give a

calming influence.

b. Disadvantages

Through technology, there are a lot of bad effects to the child.

One of its bad effects is playing too much video games or online

games that could influence the child. Another thing, too much

exposure to technology can lessen the quality time of the people

surrounding the child. As stated by The Understood Team (n.d.), there

are common problems in using technology of a child with ADHD,

these are; social skills – this means that the time of communicating

with others personally will be lessen due to face-to-face interactions on

mobile phones, computers and other gadgets; inattention – usually kids

with ADHD may forget what important thing they need to do;

distractibility – a child with ADHD easily gets distracted and unable to

stay focused; time management – kids can spend a lot of time in any

gadgets; sleep – by excessive usage of gadgets, kids with ADHD will

have a hard time to sleep; impulse control – kids with ADHD are

usually involved on watching unsuitable videos.

20
 Chapter 5

Synthesis

Summary of Findings

The general objective of this study was to explore on how a parent

responds and copes up with particular challenges in raising a child with Attention

Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Based on the accumulated data by the

researchers, the following are the summary of findings:

Being a parent of a child with ADHD is a big responsibility and it takes a

lot of courage and determination to raise them well. As a parent, it is necessary to

know what kind of disorder the child has, how to handle a child with ADHD, the

responsibilities of being a parent, the condition of the child, not only on its health

condition, but also on the condition at school and at home, the talents the child

has, the fears of the child, support in the child’s ambitions, and know how to

appreciate every little things the child does. To be able to respond and cope up

with the challenges in raising a child with ADHD, a proper management of

parenting strategy is necessary.

Finding 1

Being a parent of a child with ADHD was exhausting since the child’s

characteristics belong to hyperactivity. Additionally, being a parent with a child

with ADHD also received negative judgments from other parents/people around.

However, parenthood brought positive outlooks in life. But despite the stressful

experiences of being a parent with a child with ADHD, the participant strived

21
hard to meet and cope up in raising the child properly (well).

Finding 2

With the use of parenting strategies, raising a child with ADHD is easier.

Showing love and affection, befriending the child, acting not only as a parent but

also as a friend or best friend, not depending on helpers, teaching the child on

what is good and bad, preventing the child from seeing conflicts or arguments,

disciplining the child, and teaching the child on how to be contented were some of

the parenting strategies the participant had stated. Raising a child with ADHD

alone (since the father of the child was working overseas) takes a lot of

determination. Being a parent with ADHD was tiresome but enjoyable.

Finding 3

The struggle the child has been facing was having bullies who tease him

because of his disorder. In addition, the child has difficulty of communicating

with others since the child is afraid of bullies. The child does not mingle with

peers because he wanted to be alone or socially isolate himself. Moreover, the

child is also afraid of the darkness. The child could only sleep when the lights are

on.

Finding 4

Being a parent with ADHD, several challenges were experienced by them.

They were often discriminated by having a child with ADHD, could not mingle

22
with others, and the child not being accepted by society would be a big heartbreak

to all parents.

Finding 5

ADHD has different characteristics, by raising each of them well,

use/apply the parenting strategies. Befriending the child, avoiding conflicts at

home to prevent influencing the child are the given strategies in parenting

children with ADHD. When the child is being bullied, confront and discipline the

bully. Having a child with ADHD may be tiresome, but being thankful for having

them will be worth it.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of the study, the generalization hereby arrives that

being a parent with a child with ADHD is exhausting. Being a parent of a child

with ADHD receives insults or negative judgments from the society. However,

parenthood brought positive outlooks on the changes of lifestyle. Despite all the

stressful experiences, the parent strives hard to be able to raise the child well to

have a normal thinking like any other normal people have.

To be able to raise the child well, the efficient use of parenting strategies

is necessary. Struggles will always be present in the day to day experiences. The

struggles a child experiences are mostly bullying, being afraid of the dark and the

difficulty in socializing with others. While the struggles of a parent experiences

are social discrimination both to the parent and to the child.

23
Recommendations

Based on the findings and generalization, this study recommends the

following:

For the parents having difficulties in coping up in raising a child with

ADHD, this study suggests a series of information where it could spread the

knowledge about ADHD, parenting strategies to be able to cope up and respond in

raising a child with ADHD. It is also recommended to never leave the child alone

and also by providing guidance. For the bullies at schools, it is recommended to

avoid maltreatment and harsh judgments against children with ADHD. For the

society, it is suggested to have more knowledge and be more considerate with

such condition. For the future researchers, this study suggests the following topics

for future investigations:

1. The type of a disorder Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is.

2. A comparison study between ADHD and ADD.

3. Experiences of an adult with ADHD.

4. Managing and involving a pupil with ADHD in an academe.

5. Educational interventions for the challenge disorders of ADHD.

24
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Books

Al-Yateem, N. (2012). The effect of interview recording on quality of data

obtained: A methodological reflection. Harrow: RCNi Publishing.

Bergey, M., Conrad, P., Filipe, A.M., & Singh, I. (2018). Global

Perspectives on ADHD: Social Dimensions of Diagnosis and

Treatment in Sixteen Countries. Maryland: Johns Hopkins

University Press

Creswell, J. (2014). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and

Mixed Methods Approaches. Thousand Oaks: SAGE Publications.

Schwartz-Shea, P. (2006). Interpretation and method: Empirical research

methods and the interpretive turn. New York: M.E Sharpe

Websites

A.D.D. Resource Center (2019 February 28). How children’s ADHD

symptoms affect parents’ feelings & behavior. Retrieved from

https://www.addrc.org/how-childrens-adhd-symptoms-affect-

parents-feelings-behavior/

25
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. (2019 March 13).

What is ADHD? Retrieved from

https://www.aacap.org/aacap/families_and_youth/resource_centers

/adhd_resource_center/adhd_a_guide_for_families/What_is_ADH

D.aspx

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019 March 13). Anxiety disorders and

ADHD. Retrieved from

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-

issues/conditions/emotional-problems/Pages/Anxiety-Disorders-

and-ADHD.aspx

Austin. (2019 February 13). ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder. Famous people with ADHD. Retrieved from

https://www.gulfbend.org/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=60778

&cn=3

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019 March 14). Other

concerns and conditions with ADHD | CDC. Retrieved from

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/conditions.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019 March 14). What is

ADHD? Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov

26
Cohen D., & Crabtree B. (2019 March 14). Qualitative research

guidelines project. Retrieved from

http://www.qualres.org/HomeSemi-3629.html

Eusebio, J. (2019 January 26). SalamatDok: ADHD: Kulang sa Pansin?

Retrieved from https://news.abs-cbn.com/current-affairs-

programs/10/30/10/salamat-dok-adhd-kulang-sa-pansin

FamilyDoctor. (2019 February 14). Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from

https://familydoctor.org/condition/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-

disorder-adhd/?adfree=true

Feldman, H., & Loe, I. (2019 March 14). Academic and educational

outcomes of children with ADHD. Retrieved from

https://academic.oup.com/jpepsy/article/32/6/643/1021192

Hasan, S. (2019 February 14). ADHD (for parents). Retrieved from

https://www.kidshealth.org/en/parents/adhd.html?view=ptr&WT.a

c=p-ptr

Hurley, K. (2019 March 14). ADHD and technology: A help or a

hindrance? Retrieved from https://www.psycom.net/adhd-and-

technology

27
Iannelli, V. (2019 February 14). A history and medication timeline of

ADHD. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/adhd-

history-of-adhd-2633127

Low, K. (2019, January 26). The importance of ADHD awareness.

Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/the-importance-of-

adhd-awareness-20474

Lyness, D. (2019 March 14). Parenting a child with ADHD. Retrieved

from https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/parenting-kid-adhd.html

Mayo Clinic. (2019 February 14). Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity

Disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-

adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878

Mersch, J. (2019 February 14). ADHD in children: Signs, symptoms,

treatments & Causes. Retrieved from

https://www.emedicinehealth.com/attention_deficit_hyperactivity_

disorder/article_em.htm#what_are_symptoms_and_signs_of_adhd

_in_children

28
Moore, E. (2019 March 14). Social challenges of children with ADHD.

How ADHD symptoms affect children’s friendships. Retrieved

from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/growing-

friendships/201503/social-challenges-children-adhd%3famp

Morin, A. (2019 February 14). What teachers see: How ADHD impacts

learning in grade school. Retrieved from

https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-

learning-disabilities/add-adhd/what-teachers-see-how-adhd-

impacts-learning-in-grade-school

Narrative Research (2019 March 14). Retrieved from

https://koppa.jyu.fi/avoimet/hum/menetelmapolkuja/en/methodma

p/strategies/narrative-research

National Institute of Mental Health. (2019 March 13). Attention-

Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): The basics. Retrieved

from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-

deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-the-basics/index.shtml

Research Methodology. (2019 March 14). Retrieved from

https://www.research-methodology.net/research-methods/data-

collection/

29
Robinson, L., Segal, J., & Smith, M. (2019 January 26). ADHD in

children: Recognizing the signs and symptoms and getting help.

Retrieved from https://www.helpguide.org/articles/add-

adhd/attention-deficit-disorder-adhd-in-children.htm

Schwartz, A. (2019 January 26). Adult ADHD: The importance of learning

social skills. Retrieved from

https://www.mentalhelp.net/blogs/adult-adhd-the-importance-of-

learning-social-skills/

Segal, J., & Melinda, S. (2019 January 26). ADHD and school. Helping

children and teens with ADHD succeed at school. Retrieved from

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/add-adhd/attention-deficit-

disorder-adhd-and-school.htm/

Smith, M. (2019 March 14). ADHD parenting tips. Retrieved from

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/add-adhd/when-your-child-has-

attention-deficit-disorder-adhd.htm/

Sonny, J. (2019 February 14). The 10 most successful people with ADHD.

Retrieved from https://m.health24.com/Medical/ADHD/About-

ADHD/Ten-of-the-most-successful-people-with-ADHD-20140718

30
30
Sunderhaft, K. (2019 March 14). We got mad (study) skills. Retrieved

from https://www.additudemag.com/study-skills-for-elementary-

school-students-with-adhd/

The history of ADHD: then and now – ADHD Institute. (2019 March 14).

Retrieved from https://adhd-institute.com/the-history-of-adhd-

then-and-now/

The National Research Center (2019 February 14). Genius or disorder?

Retrieved from https://nrcgt.uconn.edu/wp-

content/uploads/sites/953/2015/04/A9814.pdf

The Understood Team. (2019 March 13). At a glance: Helping kids with

ADHD manage screen time. Retrieved from

https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-

learning-disabilities/add-adhd/at-a-glance-helping-kids-with-adhd-

manage-screen-time

The Understood Team. (2019 January 26). Understanding ADHD.

Retrieved from https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-

issues/child-learning-disabilities/add-adhd/understanding-adhd

Vitiello, B. (2019 February 14). Focusing on ADHD: Attention Deficit

Hyperactivity Disorder. Retrieved from

https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2014/09/focusing-adhd

31
What is ADHD? (2019 January 26). Retrieved from:

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd

32
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The researchers wish to express their deepest gratitude to the people who

have extended their assistance for the success of this study.

The Almighty God, the source of our knowledge, and wisdom;

Ms. Rosanna Mahilum, for her encouragement, patience and guidance;

To our fellow classmates, for helping the researchers in the construction

of the study and;

To our parents and guardians for their untiring love and support.

33
Cristobal, Kirstein Mae L.
Lead Researcher
Senior High School
University of Cebu – Banilad
Campus
Cebu City, Philippines
kirsteincristobal@gmail.com

Sabellano, Bernadeth Mae A.

Associate
Senior High School
University of Cebu – Banilad
Campus
Cebu City, Philippines
ernasabellano1@gmail.com

Mahusay, Jastine Marie S.

Associate
Senior High School
University of Cebu – Banilad
Campus
Cebu City, Philippines
jastinemahusay@gmail.com

Alvarez, John Carlos V.

Associate
Senior High School
University of Cebu – Banilad
Campus
Cebu City, Philippines
Johncarlos22001@gmail.com

Abapo, Raymond David M.

Associate
Senior High School
University of Cebu – Banilad
Campus
Cebu City, Philippines
monrics123@gmail.com
 Appendix A

Letter of Permission to Conduct Research Interview (Transmittal Letter)

 Appendix B

Interview Consent Form

 Appendix C

Interview Questionnaires
 Appendix D

Thematic Analysis

Questions Responses Themes

What are your “Pwerteng kapuya dai, kay hyper kaayo

experiences of siya, stress pud uy, unya ma-guol kay
being a parent of a usahay dika kasabot sa iyang gusto.
Tiresome,
child with ADHD? Mamili og kaon. Sa edad niyag two
exhausting
years old sigeg lakaw-lakaw dili siya
kapuyon unya dugay kaayo matug. Mao
na maapil kog kakapoy”
What are the “Wala siya’y eye contact sa gamay pa.
symptoms of Lahi sad siya, dali ra katimaan og
ADHD? memorize siya sa ngalan sa classmate.
Anxiousness,
Dili jud siya makigstorya, mamili og
Timorous
sud-an. Jolibee ra kan-on taga lunch
gikan three years old paingon nine. Lain
mo lakaw og mo lihok.”
What are the “Magul-anon kay lahi baya siya.
specific changes in Mabalaka ka niya sa school, kahibaw Adjusting to
your life having a siya pero lahi siya. Gibalhin siya’g Parenthood,
child with ADHD? SPED class sa Mandaue. Balhin-balhin Timid,
og school lagyo kaayo siya’g gi Emotional
eskwelahan.
What are the “Happy raman siya, pero kami kami ra
advantages and kay dili man siya mo mingle sa lain.
disadvantages of Malipay siya’g siya ra. Ang advantage
Filial love,
being a parent of a kay dili siya kahibaw mangayo. Iya rana
Unspoiled
child with ADHD? tan-awon, balik-balikon og tan-aw mao
na ako nalang paliton. Di mo istorya sa
lain.”
Does he never asks “Dili siya mo ingon sa iyang gusto. Ako
for his wants? siya pangutan-on, ‘unsa imoha?’. Dili
Unspoiled
siya motubag, dili siya mangayo, Di mo
istorya.”
Does he never steal “Dili jud ganahan rana siya balik balik
from anyone? tan-aw. Ako nalang paliton og ihatag
niya dawaton raman. Kung unsay
ganahan sa iya manghud mao rasad
iyaha.
What are his “Music, hilig kaayo siya’g videoke. Og Music lover,
talents? kahibaw sad siya moduwa og drumset. Singer,
Tanan kanta na bago memorize niya. Instrumentalist
Makamemorize siya sa number sa iyang High Memory
 favorite na kanta.” Retention

What are the “Since nataw akong anak happy kaayo

happiest/proudest ko. First baby gud nako siya. Bisag wala
moment of being a pako kahibaw ing-ana siya. Tanan Motherhood
parent of a child inahan ma-happy basta naa na ilang
with ADHD? anak.”
What do you think “Wala na sa heredity, naa na sa
is the main cause pagbuntis. Dili mana matuyo. Sa
why he has ADHD nagbuntis pako emotional kaayo ko.
as his parent? Dali kaayo ko masakitan. Sensitive
kaayo. Laagan man kaayo ko sige rakog
kita og mga special child. Nagbuntis ko Innate,
miya mura man sad kog hyper kaayo. Conception of
Tag dugay matulog. Mamili kog Pregnancy
pagkaon. Fastfood jud ako ganahan.
Kanang mo ingon sila na gipalaglag,
wala man grabe lang jud di ako
pagbuntis samot nag ako ra kay naa sa
barko ako bana.”
Ma honor or ka “Wala siya ma honor pero ma most siya.
Achievements/
receive og award sa Most behaved, most friendly, mga ing-
Awards
school? ana raman na iyaha.”
What are the “Dili jud dapat pakit-on ang anak na
strategies you used mag-away sa atubangan. Amo pana sila Preventing them
as a parent of a palakawon ara rako mangaway. Ako from being
child with ADHD? ang makig-friend sa iyaha, kung asa mi influenced
man laag sa ako sauna na barkada ako Responsibility
siya pakuyogon. Kung mo laag ko permi as a mother
siya kuyog. Ako siya duwaduwaan. Fear of
Bisag naa koy helper di na nako siya maltreatment
isalig.”
What advice can “Dapat jud himuon ra nimog barkada Befriending the
you give to other ana ba. Bisang mama ka niya dapat ma child
parent having a feel niya na friends sad mo. Dapat jud di Preventing them
child with ADHD? raka mama mura rasad mog bestfriend. from being
Dili mag away sa iya atubangan.” influenced
If other children “Mutug-an mana siya nako na kinsay
with ADHD get sig bully niya. Adtuon na nako ako
bullied, what can istoryaan ang namully og ayaw kay lahi
Consoling the
you advice to other baya ako anak. Tudlu-an sad siya
child
parents? pamalikas kuan nalang jud ang anak
ang ingnon na dili mo suon sa ilaha
samot na sa pamalikas.”
Are there “Maka sabot mana siya. Dili lang siya No,
difficulties in mo istorya pero kahibaw mana siya mo communication
communicating chat. Kahibaw siya mo istorya pero through
with each other? hinay lang siya sa mga essay sa technology
eskwelahan.
If ever your child “Oo, if ganahan siya pero if dili mayo
with ADHD wants pasabton namo siya. Pero panagsa ra
Unspoiled
something, do you kaayo na siya mo ingon sa iyang gusto.”
give it?
What are the “Ay kanang mga pambata kaayo na mga
specific things he dulaan. Ako siya ingnon na ayaw na ana
want that is not age kuya kay big naman ka act as a big boy Childish toys
appropriate for na.
him?
Are there any “Oo, usahay kanang makabuak siya mo
mistakes your child ana siya sorry wala nako matuyo. Mo Carelessness
with ADHD does? ana siya usahay.”
Do you not scold “Usahay, makasab-an. Kanang naay mo
him? bully niya dili niya awayon ang mo bully
niya ig uli niya iya sumbagon iya
Sometimes, out
manghud ako ingnon kuya ayaw imong
of concerns.
manghud ang sumbaga kay wala siyay
sala. Ayaw ana kuya sagdii nalang nang
mga bully.”
Are there any “Sa una naa siyay PSP magduwa siya
effects to a child iya tuyuon og ligis ang mga tao. Ako
with ADHD from ingnon ayaw ana kuya bad mana.
technologies? Kahibaw mana siya iya lang taguon. Becoming
Mao na pagkaguba wala na nako paliti. influenced
Mao to mo adto sa tunga sa kalsada
magpaligis. Murag na apply niya kung
unsay makit-an, maka influence niya.
Has he experienced “Wala man, kahibaw mana siya mo
on having an labang. Siya ra gani na mo sakay
accident? padung skwelahan mangutana ra siya
No, aware of
pilay plete. Pero kasuway siya ma
traffic rules
missing sa SM mag suroy suroy mi
dayun mag lahi na siyag iyaha. Mawala
man siya kay naa man sad siya iyaha.”
Whenever he gets “Mo ana ko ayaw kuyog og stranger
lost what would he kuya ha. Mo adto siyag guard niya iya
Approaching
do? ingnon na wala ako mama. Mo adto na
trusted people
siyag information e paging ko na akoy
nawala. Ako na siyang gi tudluan.”
What does he want “Minecraft may kaayo siya ana. Pero
Playing video
to do? karon dili na lahi na pero dili nalang
games
siya magpakita.”
Does he have any “Sauna, ako pa siya gipa tutoran, karon Updated in
struggles in school dili na kay ni ana naman ang teacher current lessons
or would he cope ayaw lang kay kahibaw naman siya dili
up? man siya ma behind sa klase. Pero kung
naa siyay score na dagko mao ra iya
ipakita ang gagmay iya ilabay.”
What are his fears? “Kanang mo ngit ngit, mahadlok na siya
mo brown out sauna. Matulog na siyag Darkness
hayag. Di siya makatug og pawng suga.
What are his “Sige man kog pangutana niya, kuya
ambitions in life? kanang grade 9 grade 10 naka unsa
diay imo ganahan kuya? ‘Teacher lang
Educator
ma.’ Mo ana ko kuya kaya na nimo
Teacher kuya, sige lang ato na
paningkamotan.”
Does he often gets “Sauna sige jud na siyag kahilantan.
sick? Dali ra kaayo siya masakit. Dali rasad Frequent illness,
kaayo siya luason. Sige siyag ka Prone to illness
hospital taas kaayo siyag hilanat.”
How does he “Dili man siya makig istorya kaayo,
socialize with mga babae iya ka tipon tipon sa una kay
others? kung adto siya sa mga lalaki bullyhon Becoming close
man siya. Bata sad na iya mga ganahan with females
kanang gagmay. Mga bata ang iyang
duwaan mao raman iya makasinabot.”
Do he have any “Wala man, pero kanang wala siyay
special needs? friends. Mao na ako nalang makipag No.
friend sa akong anak.”
Any biggest “Naay pulips sa iyang large intestine
challenge happened sauna. Kung mo dako na siya mao na
in his life? magka cancer. Wala siya gi operahan gi
lazeran ra kay gamay paman. Dapit Health condition
raman sad tos anus mao na taga libang
niya magdugo fresh pa kaayo ang
dugo.”
 Appendix E
Parents’ Consents for Oral Defense