Adapting to a New Normal: Changes in Behavioral Symptoms in Children with ADHD During Online Education

Authors : Gresa Çarkaxhiu Bulut, Sebla Gökçe, Funda Gümüştaş

Pages : 377-382

Doi:10.18521/ktd.1334880

View : 65 | Download : 266

Publication Date : 2023-10-20

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: Children with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), are considered a particularly vulnerable group due to the distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and associated social isolation measures. This study aimed to examine the alterations in symptoms of children with ADHD during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: Sociodemographic data and ADHD symptom scores, measured using the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham scale (SNAP-IV) parent form, were obtained from patient files from the same educational year prior to the pandemic. In addition to pandemic-related inquiries, parents were requested to complete the SNAP form again to assess their children\'s current conditions. Results: Of the total 104 cases, 28.8% were female with a mean age of 10.5 (SD=2.4). There were no significant differences in ADHD symptom scores before and during quarantine. Participants who received regular online education had a significantly lower rate of externalizing problems. Children with parents who developed new onset negative emotional problems exhibited a significantly higher rate of internalizing problems. Participants whose fathers worked from home had a significantly lower rate of internalizing problems compared to children with fathers working in an office or who were unemployed. Conclusions: The pandemic did not induce changes in the core symptoms of ADHD. It is inferred that educational planning for children, parental well-being, and accommodating parents\' employment opportunities are among the most critical factors in maintaining the well-being of children and adolescents with ADHD during the pandemic period.
Keywords : DEHB, Covid 19, Çevrim İçi Eğitim, Davranışsal Belirtiler, Çocuklar