Everyday life in families with a child with ADHD and public health nurses’ conceptions of their role

Sammanfattning: ADHD is one of the most common behavioral disorders diagnosed in children. These children have difficulties regarding the regulation of emotions, maintaining attention and impulse control, all of which influence family and social life. The aim of this study was to describe and explore the everyday life of families with a child with ADHD and public health nurses’ role in relation to these families. The parents were contending with- and adapting to the parental role and social network. The family attempted to safeguard a functioning family in managing their everyday life, tuning themselves in on the child’s shifting moods, using strict boundaries and developing special skills. The family fought for acceptance and inclusion when interacting with their social network and professionals. Parents with ADHD and families with non-medicated children reported more problems in family functioning. Characteristics in parents and the child with ADHD, as well as support from the social network and community health services, all influenced family functioning. The PHNs described their role as both a peripheral and collaborating partner, asking for guidelines and multidisciplinary collaboration. The public health nurse is in a unique position to support and supervise these families.