Explanatory Models and Help-Seeking Behavior for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Among a Cohort of Postsecondary Students

The authors present findings from a qualitative descriptive study that explored how a diverse ethnic group of postsecondary students diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) conceptualized their condition and how this conceptualization shaped their efforts to seek help. Kleinmanʹs explanatory model, the organizing framework, called for participants to describe the etiology, symptom onset, pathophysiology, course, and treatment of ADHD. Twenty-seven participants from four academic institutions took part in the study. A common explanatory model of ADHD was not shared; however, gender and age differences were apparent. These finding have implications for nurses when providing culturally appropriate care to individuals with ADHD in their practice settings.