A hard pill to swallow: the need to identify and treat ADHD to reduce sufferers' potential involvement in the criminal justice system

Lane, Corey J.;Chong, Mark David

Abstract

This paper explores the nature of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), its prevalence among offender populations, and its consequent impact on the Australian criminal justice system. To that end, it will be divided into two major sections. The first encompasses an extensive review of what is currently known about ADHD, including the historical development of the diagnosis, its known aetiology, ADHD and correlates, estimates of its prevalence, its successful treatment, high-level adverse trajectories for sufferers, and associated costs. The second will examine the significant overrepresentation of ADHD sufferers in youth and adult criminal justice populations and highlight the concerning lack of acknowledgment in major Australian criminal justice reviews of the prevalence and impact of ADHD. Finally, a call for action in relation to its strategic diagnosis, early intervention and treatment as a crucial part of an optimal criminal justice crime prevention strategy will be made.

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James Cook University Law Review

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1321-1072

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James Cook University

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