Theoretical Frameworks and Their Influence on Behavior and Action

Published by Kimberly Jenkins May 3, 2026

There are various hypotheses that can help explain why women typically don’t get diagnosed with ADHD. These theories can also help develop solutions related to this issue. Meyer (2003) came up with one of these theories, called minority stress theory. This idea was originally developed to elucidate difficulties pertaining to sexual minorities; nevertheless, it can be broadened to encompass women with ADHD who may endure chronic stress resulting from stigmatization and misunderstanding.

Social role theory is another idea that could help us grasp this problem. Lauzen et al. (2008) assert that the social position of women has been perpetuated by media stereotypes that establish specific expectations for female behavior. Consequently, when a woman with ADHD fails to meet those expectations, her behavior may be regarded as a personal issue.

The theories of cognitive behavior can elucidate how women interpret specific social messages that affect them. In this instance, women with ADHD who have not undergone treatment may develop negative perceptions of their perceived inadequacies, leading to the manifestation of anxiety and despair (Rucklidge, 2010; Young et al., 2020). The aforementioned hypotheses emphasize the imperative to diagnose ADHD promptly to avert the emergence of psychological issues linked to the disorder’s secondary repercussions.

Consequently, all theories can be employed to examine the impact of various factors, including social and systemic influences, on ADHD in women and its diagnosis, with the aim of formulating targeted strategies for both the treatment of this disorder and the rectification of detrimental societal factors affecting it.