‘It Spoke Our Language’: Exploring cultural and occupational mechanisms in a culturally responsive parenting intervention for ultra-Orthodox Jewish mothers of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in Australia

Abstract

Parents of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience stress, stigma and parenting challenges. These may intensify in minority faith-based communities where culture shapes help-seeking and routines. This study explored how a culturally responsive telehealth parenting intervention supported ultra-Orthodox Jewish (UOJ) mothers in Australia. A qualitative-dominant embedded mixed-methods feasibility design grounded in a constructivist–interpretivist approach was used. Fourteen UOJ mothers enrolled in a six-session telehealth intervention integrating ADHD psychoeducation, executive function concepts and maternal health strategies. Pre–post questionnaires assessed ADHD knowledge, stigma, stress and occupational participation. Post-intervention focus groups were the primary data source and were analysed thematically. Thirteen mothers completed the intervention and focus groups. Trends showed increased ADHD knowledge, maternal role engagement and health-promoting activities, alongside reduced stigma and parental stress. Five themes emerged: (1) finally seen, (2) navigating community demands, (3) learning and reframing ADHD, (4) feeling supported as a mother and (5) desire for practical, long-term tools. Higher-order interpretation generated three preliminary mechanisms—cultural alignment, relational validation and occupational reframing—which appeared relevant to reduced self-blame and shifts in maternal-role interpretations. Culturally responsive telehealth interventions may support parenting occupations by enhancing cultural relevance, relational safety and strategy application in daily life.