Research Framework: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in childhood and is often associated with multiple challenges faced by the parents involved, including increased parental stress with negative impacts in particular on the parent-child relationship and on discipline.

Objective: The objective of this qualitative study is to describe the experience of parental stress from the perspective of Quebec parents of a child aged 7 to 12 diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Methods: Ten parents participated virtually in a semi-structured one-on-one interview and completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Parental Stress Index (PSI-4), confirming that the parents participating in the study have a very high average level of parental stress.

Results: Thematic analysis of the interview verbatim revealed four main themes: challenging days, constant concerns, demanding supervision, and personalized stress management strategies.

Conclusion: This study provided a better understanding of the experience of parental stress among Quebec parents of a child with ADHD, and their personal strategies for managing parental stress. The experience of Quebec parents is similar to that of other socio-cultural realities. The results also underline the importance of providing support to parents and focusing specifically on the parental stress experienced, and not just on the management of children with ADHD.

Contribution: This article contributes to a better understanding of parental stress among parents of children with ADHD. This knowledge ultimately aims to support the implementation of interventions to support parents in managing their parental stress.

• parental stress
• parent
• attention-deficit
• hyperactivity disorder
• subjective experience
• qualitative study

https://journals.openedition.org/efg/21972