Detection of changes in child development children with attention deficit hiperactivity disorder in punta arenas: exploring the vision of parents

Abstract

This research investigated the processes of diagnosis of child development in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Punta Arenas, from the perspective of parents, due to the limited research in the region on the issue, in relevance to the profession of occupational therapy and the impact that has this problem in national policies and global health. The methodology is qualitative, with a design based on symbolic interactionism. The research participants were parents and / or mothers of children diagnosed with ADHD. Data collection was semi-structured analyzed from the Grounded Theory. We showed that the parents have general knowledge of child development of their children, but not known the warning signs of psychomotor development. Furthermore, they have shown a lack of information and guidance from professionals in health care networks and education. For parents it is important to observe the warning signs of child development before age six. We conclude that the process of diagnosis of child development is delayed for families, despite the various health and education programs available.