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Affective disorder in juvenile offenders: A preliminary study
S R Pliszka1, J O Sherman, M V Barrow
1Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 78284-7792, USA. pliska@uthscsa.edu
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|January 5, 2000
Summary
Juvenile offenders show high rates of major mental disorders, including affective and conduct disorders. This highlights the need for mental health services and further research into substance abuse connections.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Adolescent Psychology
- Criminology
Background:
- Juvenile detention centers house adolescents with a high likelihood of mental health issues.
- Understanding the prevalence of mental disorders in this population is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of major mental disorders and substance abuse among adolescents in a juvenile detention center.
Main Methods:
- Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children (DISC) modules were administered to 50 youths (ages 11-17).
- Screening was conducted as part of routine mental health assessments at an urban juvenile detention center.
Main Results:
- 42% of adolescents exhibited affective disorders (mania, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder).
- 60% met criteria for conduct disorder, with high rates of substance dependence (alcohol, marijuana, other substances).
- A significant association was found between affective and conduct disorders, and mania correlated with higher rates of non-alcohol/marijuana substance abuse.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents in juvenile detention settings demonstrate elevated rates of affective disorders.
- Further research is necessary to explore the interplay between affective disorders, substance abuse, and antisocial behavior in this demographic.
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