OBJECTIVE: To assess the knowledge of the general population concerning attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and of physicians, psychologists and teachers concerning clinical aspects of the disorder. METHODS: 2,117 individuals (age > 16 years), 500 teachers, 405 physicians (128 general practitioners, 45 neurologists, 30 neuropediatricians, 72 pediatricians, 130 psychiatrists) and 100 psychologists were interviewed by an independent research institute (Datafolha). Face-to-face interviews were conducted with a population sample stratified by geographic region, controlled by sex and age. Telephone interviews were conducted with the professional groups in Belém, Fortaleza, Recife, Salvador, Brasília, Belo Horizonte, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Curitiba and Porto Alegre (simple random sampling). RESULTS: Of the general population, > 50% believed that ADHD drugs lead to addiction, that ADHD results from absent parents, that sports are a better treatment than drugs and that treatment with psychotherapy without drugs is feasible. Among teachers, > 50% believed that ADHD results from absent parents, that ADHD can be treated with psychotherapy alone and that sports can replace drugs. Among psychologists, > 50% believed that ADHD can be treated with psychotherapy alone. Among physicians, > 50% of pediatricians and neurologists believed that ADHD results from absent parents. CONCLUSION: All the groups reported beliefs that are not based on scientific evidence and that may contribute to inadequate diagnosis and treatment. It is urgent that these professional groups be trained and that an information program on ADHD be established for parents and schools.
Attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity; health knowledge; attitudes; practice
