Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Young French Male Prisoners

• NCJ Number: 246014
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 59 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2014 Pages: 1016-1019
• Author(s): Anne Gaiffas; Cedric Galera Ph.D.; Virginie Mandon M.D.; Manuel P. Bouvard Ph.D.
• Date Published: July 2014
• Length: 4 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

While forensic studies have reported higher than community rates of mental disorders in imprisoned populations, few studies have focused on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in these subjects.

Abstract

While forensic studies have reported higher than community rates of mental disorders in imprisoned populations, few studies have focused on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in these subjects. The aim of this study was to investigate ADHD prevalence among young French male prisoners. A specific diagnostic interview (Conners' Adult ADHD Diagnostic Interview for DSM-IV, CAADID) was used. Correlations between ADHD, subsyndromal ADHD, and criminal features were investigated. 11% of young male prisoners among 93 male subjects aged 18-35 years met the criteria for actual ADHD, and 17% met those for childhood ADHD. Considering ADHD and subsyndromal ADHD, prevalence was about 43% in adulthood. ADHD and subsyndromal ADHD in adulthood were significantly associated with a higher number of imprisonments and a younger age at first arrest. It could be advisable to better identify subjects with ADHD symptoms among prison populations. Abstract published by arrangement with Wiley.