Treatment for ADHD in Western Culture: What are the Alternatives?
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Authors
Dreger, Vanessa
Issue Date
2025-05-04
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) , biopsychosocial , children , holistic , horticultural therapy , neurobiological , pharmaceuticals , stimulants
Alternative Title
Abstract
This capstone carefully examines the systemic and cultural dynamics shaping diagnostic and treatment trends of in children and adolescents within Western culture. There is a critical analysis of underlying factors contributing to overdiagnosis, misdiagnosis, and the overprescribing of stimulant medications (SMs). Further explored are the implications of SM use on the developing brain, highlighting research gaps and limitations. The primary aim of this study is to identify alternative treatment options and address the need for cultural inclusive and informed treatment methods. A comprehensive literature review was conducted over several months, where data was synthesized and findings were dispersed throughout the capstone, as well as three key themes in chapter two. The findings within this capstone reveal influence of broader Western social systems on diagnostic and treatment trends, necessitating the consideration of alternative, holistic, and culturally informed treatment methods. Significant gaps within the research are also addressed, focusing on the lack of cultural inclusivity in the perpetuation of systemic issues in ADHD care, with a primary focus on the experiences of Indigenous populations in Canada. The findings underscore the need for incorporating alternative approaches to ADHD treatment which prioritize cultural diversity, in efforts to dismantle and decolonize Western paradigms. By addressing systemic inequities and incorporating cultural perspectives, future practices can better support equitable and inclusive care.