How Are Women with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and a History of Offending Supported in the English & Welsh CJS?

By Emily Barclay,

Bournemouth University

Evidence suggests rates of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are disproportionately high among women with a history of offending. Evidence also suggests that if women were treated for their ADHD, criminality could be reduced by approximately 41%. Despite this, these women are under researched, underdiagnosed and under treated.

Semi-structured interviews of four professionals and practitioners who work around these women were used to investigate the awareness, attitudes, and the provision of support for these women.

The findings reveal a pervasive lack of awareness about ADHD in women, compounded by inadequate training and persistent stigma and misconceptions within the CJS. The study highlights how these issues result in poor identification and support for women with ADHD, exacerbating their challenges within the CJS. Additionally, the research uncovers the impact of prioritizing other factors such as substance misuse, domestic abuse, and child welfare over the ADHD needs of these women.

The insights gained underscore the necessity for comprehensive and mandatory training tailored to ADHD, improved screening and identification processes, and enhanced support mechanisms within the CJS. This research addresses a critical gap in the literature and provides a foundational step towards more effective interventions and policy developments to better support women with ADHD in the criminal justice system.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15863014

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