A meta-analysis of the prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in incarcerated populations

Abstract

BackgroundStudies report the variable prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in incarcerated populations. The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the prevalence of ADHD in these populations.MethodPrimary research studies reporting the prevalence (lifetime/current) of ADHD in incarcerated populations were identified. The meta-analysis used a mixed log-binomial model, including fixed effects for each covariate and a random study effect, to estimate the significance of various risk factors.ResultsForty-two studies were included in the analysis. ADHD prevalence was higher with screening diagnoses versus diagnostic interview (and with retrospective youth diagnoses versus current diagnoses). Using diagnostic interview data, the estimated prevalence was 25.5% and there were no significant differences for gender and age. Significant country differences were noted.ConclusionsCompared with published general population prevalence, there is a fivefold increase in prevalence of ADHD in youth prison populations (30.1%) and a 10-fold increase in adult prison populations (26.2%).

Diagnostic accuracy of a brief screening tool for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in UK prison inmates

“…Many of these inmates will likely meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD (Young et al, 2014), and in turn will be released from prison and will require community mental health services. Efficient identification in prison may lead to adequate interventions that could prevent adverse functional outcomes for the individual and for society.…”

“…Long-term adverse outcomes for ADHD have been documented in a wide range of areas, including school and occupational performance (Shaw et al, 2012), interpersonal relationships (Moya et al, 2014) and comorbidity, including conduct disorder, antisocial personality, and substance use (Levin et al, 2004, van Emmerik-van Oortmerssen et al, 2012. Its burden of disease is evidenced by an increased likelihood for serious accidents (Barkley et al, 1993, Chang et al, 2014, earlier mortality rates (Dalsgaard et al, 2015), delinquency and criminality (Gonzalez et al, 2013, Young et al, 2014. Considerable evidence supports an over-representation of youths and adults with ADHD in correctional services.…”

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptom Status in a Mixed Gender Population of Opioid-Maintained Prison Inmates

“…Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is frequently linked to criminal activities [4,5]. A recent meta-analysis of 42 studies reported an estimated prevalence of 25.5% for ADHD in incarcerated populations [6], without reporting any medication details in the 26,641 included individuals. Compared to the general population, where the estimated pooled global ADHD prevalence in adults is 2.5% [7], this represents a tenfold prevalence rate.…”

Confabulation: Implications for Criminal Justice, Forensic Mental Health, and Legal Professionals

“…The use of a memory diary and self-monitoring training could be beneficial for memory monitoring [83,84]. Because caregivers and other support system members can make a world of difference, mental health professionals should consider providing education on the topic of confabulation to these individuals [85][86][87][88][89].…”