The Prevalence of ADHD and Comorbid Disorders in Iranian Adult Male Prison Inmates

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the present study was to explore the prevalence of ADHD and comorbid disorders in a community sample of adult male prisoners in Iran. Method: Through stratified sampling method, 908 adult male prison inmates in Gorgan Prison were recruited on a voluntary basis. Diagnostic assessments were based on the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale Screener and a clinical interview based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.) criteria and psychiatric interview. Comorbid disorders were assessed with the Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory–Second Edition, and Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory–III. Results: ADHD was present in 147 participants (16.2%). Eighty-five percent of participants with ADHD reported lifetime substance abuse. They had higher rates of mood (40.8%) and anxiety (55.1%) disorders. Antisocial and borderline personality disorders were also more prevalent among offenders with ADHD. Conclusion: ADHD is prevalent in offenders and it is associated with comorbid disorders. The results emphasize the necessity of treatment programs for offenders with ADHD.