A systematic review of coping strategies in parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Rodriguez-Seijas et al. (2020) pulled together every study they could find on how parents of kids with ADHD cope. They read the papers, compared methods, and looked for patterns.

The review focused on parents, not the kids. The goal was to map what strategies moms and dads use when stress runs high.

Parents of children with ADHD lean more on avoidant coping than parents of typically developing kids. Avoidant coping means pushing the problem away or pretending it is not there.

Mothers also reach out for social support more often than fathers. The review did not rank strategies as good or bad; it simply counted what parents report.

Paster et al. (2009) saw the same jump in avoidant coping and support-seeking among parents of kids with any disability. Their survey came first, so Rodriguez-Seijas et al. (2020) later confirmed the pattern across many studies.

De Laet et al. (2025) moved the lens forward. They showed that positive coping predicts better well-being in caregivers of young adults with developmental disabilities. This extends Francesco’s child focus into adulthood and adds that coping style matters for mental health.

Gur et al. (2023) looked at psychological flexibility, not coping style. Their review found ACT helps parents bend without breaking. Together the papers tell us: assess what parents do now (Francesco), teach flexible thinking (Ayelet), and aim for positive action (Hannah).

You can open a parent meeting with two quick questions: “When stress hits, do you find yourself avoiding the problem?” and “Who do you talk to for help?” These answers flag parents who may need more support. Next, add brief ACT moves like values clarification or mindfulness pauses, and link families to concrete supports such as parent groups or respite care. Small shifts away from avoidance and toward flexible, positive coping can lower stress for both parent and child.