Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Men and Women Newly Committed to Prison

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with comorbid psychiatric diagnoses and antisocial behaviors that contribute to criminality, yet studies of ADHD in offenders are few. The authors evaluate a random sample of 319 offenders using a version of the Mini International Neurops...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of offender therapy and comparative criminology 2010-06, Vol.54 (3), p.361-377
Main Authors: Westmoreland, Patricia, Gunter, Tracy, Loveless, Peggy, Allen, Jeff, Sieleni, Bruce, Black, Donald W
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Attention Deficit Disorder
Criminality
Offenders
Prisons
Risk
Suicide
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Summary:Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with comorbid psychiatric diagnoses and antisocial behaviors that contribute to criminality, yet studies of ADHD in offenders are few. The authors evaluate a random sample of 319 offenders using a version of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview and Medical Outcome Survey Health Survey. ADHD was present in 68 subjects (21.3%). Offenders with ADHD were more likely to report problems with emotional and social functioning and to have higher suicide risk scores (p < .001). They also had higher rates of mood, anxiety, psychotic, and somatoform disorders. Antisocial and borderline personality disorders were also more common among offenders with ADHD. The authors conclude that ADHD is common in offenders and is associated with comorbid disorders, worse quality of life, and higher risk for suicidal behaviors. Its presence should alert prison staff that the offender is likely to require more intensive mental health services. [Reprinted by permission of Sage Publications Inc., copyright holder.]
ISSN:0306-624X
DOI:10.1177/0306624X09332313