Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and the Juvenile Justice System

ABSTRACT

Two-thirds of all felons released from state prisons are rearrested within three years. This appalling recidivism rate explains the intense and growing interest on the topic of desistance from crime. Yet, inexplicably, one of the major factors affecting desistance from crime, especially in the juvenile justice system, has received scant attention. That factor is attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This article establishes the widespread prevalence of ADHD in the juvenile justice system and examines the major mechanisms whereby ADHD increases the risk for recidivism. The aim of this article is to highlight the critical importance of identifying and treating ADHD as an essential component for any best practices model for reducing recidivism.

KEYWORDS:

• ADHD
• juvenile justice system
• recidivism