Flighty like the pīwakawaka!: personal reflections on mid-life ADHD diagnosis and the beginnings of a framework for conceptualising the condition from a Māori perspective

Abstract

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and executive dysfunction. While commonly associated with childhood, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder often persists into adulthood and poses significant challenges in various aspects of life, leading to negative self-perceptions, decreased quality of life, and increased risk of comorbid mental health conditions. There is a desperate need for more research about attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder from a Māori (Indigenous peoples of New Zealand) perspective. Considering the limited research, this article introduces the metaphor of the pīwakawaka (New Zealand Fantail) as a culturally grounded way of conceptualising attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder from a Māori perspective. The pīwakawaka’s characteristics, including its quick movements, curiosity, and ability to adapt to changing environments, mirror certain aspects of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.