Raising a child with ADHD: Challenges, Social Barriers, and Ways to Build a Strong Parent-Child Relationship

Raising a child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) means facing new challenges every day. There are often norms and expectations at school and in society that a child with ADHD finds difficult to meet. This often leads to negative feedback for the child, as well as excessive demands and anxiety for parents. But how can you build a loving, supportive relationship in this area of tension and empower the child?

The challenges of everyday life and school

Children with ADHD are often impulsive, have difficulty concentrating on a task, and sometimes find it difficult to behave appropriately in social situations. This can lead to problems at school, where they are often perceived as restless, disruptive, or "nonconforming. They regularly receive negative feedback from teachers and classmates, which can have a major impact on their self-esteem.

These children feel that they are "different" and their environment confirms this by constantly criticizing or reprimanding them. This can be frustrating for parents: on the one hand, they want the best for their child, but on the other hand, they are often forced into the role of "defender" or "explainer" to justify their child's behavior in various contexts.

Parents' own excessive demands and self-doubt

Dealing with a child who is different can be emotionally and physically draining. Many parents of children with ADHD experience periods of feeling overwhelmed and helpless. They may question their parenting skills, feel exhausted from constant conflict with the child and the outside world, and often feel that they are never good enough. In addition, advice from friends or family is rarely helpful because they are unable to understand the child's unique situation and needs.

Change your perspective: Building a team together

An authoritarian parenting style that emphasizes obedience and punishment usually does not work well with children with ADHD. Such approaches often only lead to more resistance and reinforce negative patterns. Instead, a partnership approach that recognizes the child as an independent individual with special needs can help build a strong relationship.

To empower the child and deepen the relationship, it is helpful to develop rules and structures together. It can be valuable to involve the child in decision making and to make them feel part of the "family" team. This builds not only self-confidence, but also trust between parent and child.

Practical ways to support and empower the child

• Positive feedback and praise: Children with ADHD often receive negative feedback. It is important to praise even small gains and successes to build the child's self-esteem.

• Set clear and realistic expectations: Children with ADHD need structure as well as flexibility. Rather than setting unattainable goals, it may be helpful to set small, achievable steps and encourage the child to reach them.

• Emotional Support and Open Communication: A sympathetic ear and understanding of the child's feelings are valuable. Parents should signal that the child can always come to them with thoughts and concerns.

• Develop strategies together: Talk with the child about possible solutions to problems and work together to develop strategies to help the child overcome challenges, whether in school or in social interactions.

• Seek professional help: A therapist or coach can provide valuable support for both the child and the parent. The child can learn how to better manage his or her emotions and impulses, and parents can learn new approaches and methods for dealing with ADHD.

Conclusion: Recognize the child's strengths and strengthen the relationship

Parenting a child with ADHD is a challenge that requires a great deal of patience, understanding, and creativity. At the same time, however, it is an opportunity to build a particularly close and trusting relationship that will strengthen the child. By forming a team and supporting each other, parents and children can face the challenges together. Parents who guide their child with empathy and positive reinforcement have the opportunity to bring out the best in both and build a strong foundation for the future.