Presentation Information
[O-11-01]Understanding Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Cultural Psychiatry Perspective with focus on ADHD across the lifespan.
*Pietro De Rossi (Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital(Italy))
Keywords:
ADHD,lifespan,cultural
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that manifests differently across the lifespan and is characterized by peculiarities in diagnosis and management in different cultures. In this presentation the author explores the evolving clinical features, diagnostic challenges, and treatment approaches for ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults, with a focus on cultural influences shaping its expression, treatment strategies and recognition. By examining cross-cultural epidemiological data and clinical experiences, the presentation aims to highlight both universal patterns and culture-specific variations in ADHD diagnosis and management, both at the individual level and in terms of public healthcare policies. Special attention is given to stigma, access to care, and culturally sensitive interventions. Also, during the last decades there have been significant discrepancies among different countries and continents in research contributions to this topic, warranting a need for more standardized measurement approaches.Understanding ADHD through a culturally-oriented lens is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective, individualized treatment throughout life, especially with respect to challenges that migration processes are posing to healthcare systems all over the world. In this context the presentation underscores the importance of integrating cultural competence in psychiatric practice to better address the needs of diverse populations with ADHD.