IMPACT OF FAMILY FUNCTIONING AND STRUCTURE ON CAREGIVER BURDEN AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS IN PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH ADHD

Abstract

Objective: To determine the impact of family functioning and family structure on caregiver burden and psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress) among parents of children with ADHD.  Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at the Child Psychiatry Clinic of LUMHS from August 2024 to April 2025. A total of 73 parents or primary caregivers of children aged 6–13 years diagnosed with ADHD according to DSM-5 criteria were included using non-probability consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a structured proforma for sociodemographic and family variables. Family functioning was assessed using the Family Assessment Device (FAD), caregiver burden using the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), and psychological distress using the DASS-21. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. Correlation was performed, with p ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results:  Among 73 caregivers, 64.4% were female, and 56.2% belonged to joint families. Family dysfunction was observed in 75.3% of participants. High caregiver burden was reported in 53.4%, while moderate to severe levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were observed in 56.2%, 60.3%, and 53.4% of caregivers, respectively. Family functioning showed a significant positive correlation with caregiver burden (r = 0.61) and psychological distress (r = 0.57). Caregivers from joint families had significantly higher burden and distress scores compared to nuclear families (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Family dysfunction and structure significantly influence caregiver burden and psychological distress among parents of children with ADHD. These findings highlight the need for family-centered interventions and caregiver support strategies in the management of ADHD.