Can the Diagnosis and Support of Offenders with ADHD Help Reduce Reoffending?
- shaunyates2
- 5 days ago
- 1 min read
By Thomas McInnes,
London Metropolitan University.
The United Kingdom is currently facing a crisis with prison overcrowding and reoffending. This study looks at the connection between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and the rates of reoffending among offenders, focusing on ADHD’s prevalence within the criminal justice system. It assesses how diagnosing and treating ADHD may impact re-offending, considering the diagnoses effects on offending behaviour. To answer this a literature review was conducted using a systematic approach which utilises a thematic analysis of existing literature, exploring themes related to ADHD offenders, including links to violent offences, the need for improved screening, and the influence of comorbid conditions. It finds that many imprisoned individuals with ADHD are undiagnosed, leading to inadequate support during and after imprisonment. Effective treatment strategies, such as medication and psychological support, are crucial for lowering reoffending rates. The results highlight the importance of implementing systematic ADHD screenings in the criminal justice system and underscore the necessity for tailored support post-release, suggesting that timely intervention could reduce reoffending and improve reintegration outcomes. This underscores the vital role of social work in addressing the specific needs of this vulnerable group, which is often overlooked in conventional rehabilitation programs, emphasising the need for a more informed approach.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17112739