Nutrition Knowledge of Families with Children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Compared to General Public Knowledge of ADHD and Nutrition

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has become a growing concern. ADHD is multi-faceted and includes genetic, parental, social, developmental, nutritional and environmental concerns. ADHD is most commonly treated with medication and working with a psychologist or behavioral therapist. Many are concerned about medications and their side effects, so nutrition has been looked at in helping with treatment. This study examined information about nutrition and beliefs of food on symptoms. It also examined possible demographic differences in comparing knowledge of families and the general population. Guardians who have children with ADHD in grades K-8 and general population filled out a questionnaire about knowledge and demographic information. They were found through snowball sampling and the University of Wisconsin-Stout. There is limited knowledge on nutrition and ADHD and there is no demographic group that has more knowledge than another as analyzed through Chi-Square and frequencies. Nutrition may help with symptoms of ADHD, but knowledge is limited, so the next step would be to find out what psychologist or behavioral therapists know on nutrition and ADHD.