Three Key Learnings:
ADHD symptoms vary across cultures, often leading to misdiagnosis, underdiagnosis, or stigma-driven avoidance of care. Western diagnostic tools may not fully capture diverse ADHD presentations, necessitating culturally responsive assessment methods that consider cultural formulations, symptom variations, and family perspectives. In therapy, integrating cultural values, addressing stigma, and using strength-based, flexible interventions improve engagement and outcomes. Building trust requires active listening, collaboration, and advocacy to reduce barriers in assessment and treatment. Systemic change, including inclusive research and policy adaptations, is essential to improving accessibility and ensuring equitable ADHD care for marginalized communities.


Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a globally recognized neurodevelopmental condition, yet its assessment and treatment remain deeply influenced by Western frameworks. Cultural factors significantly shape how ADHD symptoms are perceived, diagnosed, and managed, often leading to misdiagnosis, underdiagnosis, or inadequate support for individuals from diverse backgrounds. This presentation explores the critical need for cultural responsiveness in ADHD assessment and therapy, highlighting the biases embedded in diagnostic tools, the impact of cultural stigma, and the barriers faced by marginalized communities in accessing care.

Through case studies and real-world examples, we will examine the diverse manifestations of ADHD across different cultural contexts, emphasizing how symptoms may be internalized or misinterpreted based on societal norms. Participants will gain insight into culturally adapted assessment strategies, the importance of integrating lived experiences, and approaches to building trust with individuals and families who may have reservations about formal diagnoses and interventions.

In the therapeutic context, we will discuss the importance of tailoring psychoeducation to align with cultural values, addressing stigma in a respectful and effective manner, and co-creating treatment plans that accommodate religious and community-based support systems. Clinicians and researchers will be equipped with practical strategies to enhance their cultural competence, foster inclusive research, and advocate for systemic changes that promote accessibility and equity in ADHD care.

By the end of this session, attendees will have a deeper understanding of how cultural responsiveness can improve diagnostic accuracy, treatment engagement, and overall outcomes for neurodivergent individuals from diverse backgrounds. This presentation calls for a shift beyond conventional ADHD models toward an approach that acknowledges and respects the intersections of neurodiversity and cultural identity.