OA20231. Unintentional injuries among children with ADHD: Parents’ views

Abstract Background Parents play a central role in recognizing early signs of attentional and behavioral difficulties that may affect their child’s wellbeing and safety. Within the framework of the Hellenic Mediterranean University’s Mobile Unit for Learning Disabilities Assessment in Crete (MIS 5162111, 2020–2023), such observations were frequently reported during clinical interviews. Methods The study sample included 205 children, with parents of 86 boys and 47 girls completing the ADHD Rating Scale-IV (Greek version; Kalantzi-Azizi, Aggeli & Eustathiou, 2012). Notably, parents whose children scored high on ADHD symptoms frequently remarked on safety concerns during their interviews. Results Boys were rated higher across the full ADHD scale (M = 24.85, SD = 11.13 vs. M = 19.26, SD = 10.97; t = 2.78, p = 0.006), inattention (M = 14.02, SD = 6.02 vs. M = 11.11, SD = 6.67; t = 2.57, p = 0.011), and hyperactivity/impulsivity (M = 10.83, SD = 6.45 vs. M = 8.36, SD = 5.43; t = 2.23, p = 0.028), all showing statistically significant gender differences. Parents’ narratives echoed these findings, emphasizing that impulsive and risk-prone behaviors—especially in boys—made them particularly vulnerable to harm. Many described their child as not careful enough, excessively impulsive, or lacking self-regulation. These concerns often extended beyond academic issues, reflecting parental fears that inattention and hyperactivity could lead to unintentional accidents and injuries. Conclusions Parents’ perceptions provide essential context to standardized assessments, highlighting immediate threats to child safety. Listening to parental perspectives facilitates more accurate recognition of ADHD-related risks and informs interventions designed not only to support learning but also safeguard wellbeing. Inclusive psychoeducation and family-centered interventions are crucial to address parental concerns, reduce unintentional injuries, and promote healthy development and protection for all children. Key messages • Parents’ voices reveal urgent concerns about child safety in relation to attentional and behavioral difficulties. • Listening to parental perspectives is crucial for early recognition and effective support. Topic parental observations, mobile unit, community