Family resilience and caregiver’s well-being across different age groups of children with ADHD in the United States: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Purpose This study aimed to investigate the impact of family resilience on caregiver well-being across various age groups of children diagnosed with ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) groups (0–5, 6–11, and 12–17 years). Methods Utilizing secondary data from the 2022 US National Survey of Child Health, this cross-sectional study involved 2,752 children who were formally diagnosed with ADHD. Statistical analysis included descriptive analysis, Spearman’s rank correlation, chi-square tests, and linear regression, conducted using SPSS version 27. Results The study revealed a moderate positive correlation (r=.35, p<.001) between family resilience and caregiver well-being. Controlling for covariates, family resilience accounted for 25.2%, 21.1%, and 22.1% of caregiver well-being variance in age groups 0–5, 6–11, and 12–17 years, respectively. Additionally, factors like employment status, family structure, and caregiver age showed varying influences on caregiver well-being across these developmental stages. A consistent pattern emerged across these age groups: unemployment and non-traditional family structures were associated with negative impacts on caregiver well-being, whereas older caregiver age positively influenced well-being. Conclusion This research underscores the importance of age-specific family resilience strategies to improve caregiver well-being and family interactions in ADHD contexts. Investigating these aspects through qualitative studies across various cultures could deepen our understanding of well-being and inform culturally sensitive interventions.

Keywords

• attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity
• caregivers
• child
• psychological well-being
• resilience, psychological