2025-walsh

The “Extra Layer of Things”: Everyday Information Management Strategies and Unmet Needs of Moms with ADHD

Presented by Sheila Walsh

Date and Time

2025 Disability Summit

Date: Wednesday, April 23

Lecture: 2:35-2:50pm

Q&A: 2:50-3pm

Presentation Materials

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Abstract

Mothers with ADHD need to manage their symptoms while balancing parenting responsibilities. Although technology is recommended to people with ADHD, there is limited related research in human-computer interaction (HCI). To help fill this gap, the author interviewed five mothers diagnosed with ADHD. The mothers, whose voices are largely unheard in HCI research, vividly describe their challenges managing everyday information and their attempts to adapt existing systems. The study uncovers a previously unrecognized tendency among moms with ADHD to frequently switch, and sometimes abandon, tools and systems. The study contributes to HCI by linking each finding to a design consideration. and by building upon previous findings that neurodivergent individuals benefit from externalizing thoughts. These findings lay the groundwork for further HCI research and human-centered design initiatives to help parents with ADHD, and their families, thrive.

About the Speaker

Sheila Walsh

Bio coming soon!

Woman with short hair wearing a red jacket.