Assessment of teachers and paraprofessionals' knowledge and beliefs about attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

This study was conducted to gather information about the knowledge and beliefs of teachers and paraprofessionals about Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Twenty teachers and paraprofessionals responded to an online survey regarding Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. This research was a modified version of research done using the Knowledge about Attention Deficit Disorder (KADDS) Questionnaire previously conducted using teachers only. The modifications included surveying paraprofessionals, as well as teachers. Additional modifications included using a “don’t know” option for knowledge based questions. Findings from this research are consistent with previous research in that it found that teachers and paraprofessionals are able to identify trademark signs of ADHD, such as fidgetiness but are not aware of traits such as higher compliance to rules in the presence of father over the mother. Findings suggest that continuing education courses in ADHD would benefit teachers and paraprofessionals in school settings.