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Open Access | CC BY 4.0 | |

Authors:

1. Seema lrshad

Published on 12 Feb 2026

Environment and Social Psychology 10.59429/esp.v11i2.4531

Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals of all ages. Although awareness of ADHD has improved in recent years, significant misinformation and gaps in understanding the disorder remain. Aim: The current study aimed to determine the knowledge and awareness of ADHD in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional survey of Saudi people aged ≥18 years was undertaken utilizing an online, self-administered questionnaire based on DSM-5 criteria. Descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests with Bonferroni correction, and effect sizes (Cramer’s V) were used. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 27. Results: The survey was filled out by 385 people (62.3% of whom were women). Social media (32.7%) and higher education (31.2%) were the most popular sources of ADHD information. Agreement with DSM-5 ADHD criteria varied from 66.5% to 88.8%, showing overall good awareness. There were significant gender differences in information sources and treatment preferences, but the impact sizes were small to moderate (Cramer’s V = 0.18-0.29). Conclusion: The findings indicate relatively high awareness of core ADHD features among adults in Eastern Province, KSA, rather than substantial knowledge gaps. Gender-based differences highlight the influence of sociocultural and educational contexts on mental health literacy. Targeted, culturally sensitive awareness initiatives remain warranted.

Keywords

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Awareness, Gender Differences, Eastern Province

Citation

lrshad, S. (2026). Exploring Awareness and Understanding of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) among residents of Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Approach. Environ. Soc. Psychol., 11(2), 4612, doi: 10.59429/esp.v11i2.4531