There is an underutilization of ADHD services in the Latino community. A mixed-method study was conducted to explore the factors contributing to the disproportionate rates of underdiagnosis and treatment of ADHD in Latinos. This study consisted of 159 school-aged children. Information from parents and teachers was gathered.
It was found that cultural differences in the Latino community presented an issue in diagnosing and treating ADHD in Latino children. Latino parents reported that they are less likely to see ADHD as a medical issue that requires treatment. Parents expressed they felt that ADHD was normal child behavior, ill manners, and behavior that would go away without medical treatment.
There is also a disadvantage for Latino families who experience language barriers and cannot communicate with their child’s health professionals and teachers. Socioeconomic status was revealed as an additional barrier. Latino Americans are more likely to be uninsured and impoverished than non-Latino Americans, resulting in fewer doctors’ visits, follow-ups, and inadequate care.
In conclusion, several factors contribute to the Latino community’s disproportionately lower rates of ADHD diagnosis and ADHD services utilization. Cultural differences and socioeconomic issues were discovered to be the leading causes of ADHD services not being utilized by Latinos. To close this gap, we must increase education, screening, and access to treatment for ADHD in the Latino community [1].
Source:
[1] Haack, L. M., Meza, J., Jiang, Y., Araujo, E. J., & Pfiffner, L. (2018). Influences to ADHD Problem Recognition: Mixed-Method Investigation and Recommendations to Reduce Disparities for Latino Youth. Administration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research, 45(6), 958–977. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10488-018-0877-7
