Objective: The current study investigated the experience of girls growing up with cognitive and social disorders. Method: Eight adolescent girls participated in interviews that were transcribed and analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results: Four of the girls had a history of ADHD symptoms and conduct disorder problems (ADHD/CP), four did not. Three master themes emerged within the domain of "Coping Behaviors": seeking social support, bravado, and avoidance. Three master themes emerged within the domain of "Barriers to Adaptive Functioning": lack of support and guidance, poor negotiation of interpersonal conflict, and victimization. Although all participants experienced developmental barriers, the girls with ADHD/CP coped with these barriers in a less effective way. Conclusion: The study raises an important developmental concern, the seemingly ineffective coping strategies of ADHD/CP adolescents. (J. of Att. Dis. 2012; XX(X) 1-XX)