Date of Award

Spring 2023

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Psychology; College of Arts & Sciences

First Advisor

Dr. Katherine Moore

Second Advisor

Professor Ilze Nix

Abstract

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder of the brain that impairs one’s daily functioning and focus. Previous research has shown that two groups are disproportionately under-diagnosed: females and Black people. It is important to understand why these groups, and possibly others, are under-diagnosed as those without a diagnosis do not get the treatment that they need. Literature reveals that differences in symptom presentation (inattentive vs. hyperactive), biases in symptom reports, barriers to accessing mental healthcare, and negative stigmas about, and within, certain groups lead to the under-diagnosis of females and Black people. In conclusion the diagnostic criteria of ADHD needs to be reviewed and revised to account for the under-diagnosis of these two groups. Past research states that objective measures, unaffected by bias, should be used more often in the diagnosis process as bias can further exacerbate this under-diagnosis. This is because bias could lead to an inaccurate report of symptoms, which could lead to an individual not getting a diagnosis even when they have ADHD. In addition to that, the healthcare system needs to be reformed when it comes to mental healthcare in order to break down those barriers that are keeping people from getting the support and treatment that they need.

Share

COinS
 

How and Why Do Race and Gender Affect ADHD Diagnosis Levels?

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder of the brain that impairs one’s daily functioning and focus. Previous research has shown that two groups are disproportionately under-diagnosed: females and Black people. It is important to understand why these groups, and possibly others, are under-diagnosed as those without a diagnosis do not get the treatment that they need. Literature reveals that differences in symptom presentation (inattentive vs. hyperactive), biases in symptom reports, barriers to accessing mental healthcare, and negative stigmas about, and within, certain groups lead to the under-diagnosis of females and Black people. In conclusion the diagnostic criteria of ADHD needs to be reviewed and revised to account for the under-diagnosis of these two groups. Past research states that objective measures, unaffected by bias, should be used more often in the diagnosis process as bias can further exacerbate this under-diagnosis. This is because bias could lead to an inaccurate report of symptoms, which could lead to an individual not getting a diagnosis even when they have ADHD. In addition to that, the healthcare system needs to be reformed when it comes to mental healthcare in order to break down those barriers that are keeping people from getting the support and treatment that they need.