Date of Award

Spring 5-16-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Major

Educational Studies

First Advisor

Patricia Crain de Galarce

Second Advisor

Salvatore Terrassi

Third Advisor

Jessica Bramham

Abstract

Historically, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) research and public perception have centered on hyperactive young boys, overlooking how the condition manifests in women, particularly mothers. As diagnostic understanding improves, increasing numbers of women are receiving ADHD diagnoses in adulthood, shedding light on the intersection of ADHD symptoms and gendered social expectations, including the ideals of motherhood. This hermeneutic phenomenological study explores how ADHD affects the lived experience of motherhood through in-depth interviews with five mothers across North America. Findings reveal significant challenges in executive functioning, emotional regulation, time management, and self-perception, exacerbated by societal expectations of maternal competence. Participants describe the intention-behavior gap, persistent guilt, and the pressure to conform to neurotypical parenting standards. Despite these struggles, narratives also highlight the transformative value of diagnosis, the role of self-compassion, and the importance of community with other neurodivergent mothers. Grounded in Critical Disability Theory, Feminist Standpoint Theory, and Gender Schema Theory, this study conceptualizes the Access-Affirmation Matrix, illustrating how access to resources influences self-perception and empowerment. The study provides critical insights for mental health professionals, policymakers, and support networks, advocating for more inclusive and affirming support systems for neurodivergent mothers.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Download

Share

COinS