Caged by Father: ADHD Child and the Cost of Misunderstood Behavior

Father’s Decision

Caging is not what children with special needs require.

Around the world, especially in under-resourced communities, children with disorders like ADHD are often misunderstood — or worse, mistreated. In schools, some are restrained or isolated. But locking a child in a cage? That crosses a line no parent or society should allow.

Xiao Wang, a 12-year-old boy from rural China, lives with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Cortical Dysplasia, a neurological disorder. Due to his impulsive behavior and mental challenges, Xiao spends most of his life enclosed in a cage—placed there by his own father.

The Story of Xiao Wang

Xiao’s father, Hong Kefu, says he made this choice out of desperation. The boy has shown signs of severe behavioral issues: defiance, aggression toward his sister, and destruction of neighbors’ property. According to Mr. Kefu, Xiao even consumed inedible objects as a child and frequently destroyed household items.

Unable to find affordable support, and overwhelmed by neighborhood complaints, the father built a small cage—just 2 square meters (21 sq ft)—with only a stool, a urinal, and sponges inside.

But this is not a solution.

The Pain Behind the Cage

Mr. Kefu argues he must work to earn money to care for his son, and caging Xiao is the only way to protect him and others while he’s away. His ex-wife, Xiao’s mother, also lives with mental disabilities and is unable to help.

While this father’s fears may be real, no child should ever be treated like an animal. In the United States and many other nations, children with behavioral disorders can be evaluated by professionals and placed in behavioral health facilities, group homes, or with supportive relatives—never in cages.

Damage and Desperation

Xiao’s actions have damaged property, caused fear among neighbors, and likely left emotional trauma in his wake. But this does not justify imprisonment.

The father’s mistake lies not just in the act, but in not reaching out for help — no matter how hard that may be. Allowing the child to stay with relatives, community caregivers, or seeking assistance from mental health services would be more humane.

Even if he didn’t know where to turn, someone in his community should have.

Mental Illness Is Not a Crime

The root of this tragedy isn’t just ADHD or a struggling father — it’s a lack of education, awareness, and support. Mental illness and neurodivergence must never be treated as moral failings or behavioral “badness.” Xiao didn’t choose this.

He needs love, structure, therapy, and play — not punishment.

“We’re disturbed by how this child is being treated. Let your voice be heard so that no other child ends up caged — especially not in silence.”

What Can Be Done?

• Advocate for early intervention: Children with ADHD need support systems, not isolation.

• Educate communities: Help parents and neighbors understand disorders like ADHD and Cortical Dysplasia.

• Create safe alternatives: Governments and nonprofits must step in to provide mental health resources in underserved areas.

• Speak up: If you see something wrong — anywhere — speak up. A child’s future may depend on it.

No child deserves a cage. What they need is compassion, care, and a chance.