Parental Understanding and Early Detection of ADHD: A Qualitative Exploration in Indonesia



Author Information

Kahfi Hizbullah, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, Indonesia
Iriani Indri Hapsari, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, Indonesia
Dewinta Ariani, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Misunderstanding and stigma around children’s behavioral challenges often lead to delayed recognition of neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Indonesia. Children with ADHD are frequently labeled as disruptive or disobedient, when in fact they require specific support to manage inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Early detection plays a crucial role in minimizing the long-term impact on their emotional and social development. However, parental awareness of ADHD remains low. This qualitative study explores parents’ knowledge and ability to recognize early signs of ADHD. Using semi-structured interviews with 35 parents, results revealed that most participants had very limited or no prior understanding of the condition. Many parents were unfamiliar with the term ADHD itself, and those who had heard of it often held inaccurate beliefs, viewing the behavior as a result of poor discipline or parenting. As a result, early symptoms were frequently dismissed or misunderstood, leading to delays in seeking appropriate professional help. This lack of awareness contributes to missed opportunities for early intervention and can negatively affect the child’s mental health. The study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted psychoeducation for parents to promote early identification and more effective support for children with ADHD.


Paper Information

Conference: ACE2025
Stream: Education & Difference: Gifted Education

This paper is part of the ACE2025 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Hizbullah K., Hapsari I., & Ariani D. (2026) Parental Understanding and Early Detection of ADHD: A Qualitative Exploration in Indonesia ISSN: 2186-5892 – The Asian Conference on Education 2025: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 1321-1331) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2186-5892.2026.102
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2186-5892.2026.102


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Posted by James Alexander Gordon