Mothers' and children's perceptions of medication for children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

This study assessed the perceptions about medication held by mothers and ch ildren with ADHD. Thirty-one mother-child dyads completed questionnaires as sessing their knowledge and perceptions of stimulant medication and their l evel of perceived side effects associated with taking medication for ADHD. Mothers tended to view their children's medication as more beneficial than did their children. Mothers also demonstrated significantly more knowledge about their children's medication. Implications are drawn for research and clinical education of children and parents about medication for ADHD.