Mental disorders in juveniles who sexually offended: a meta-analysis

Authors:
BOONMANN Cyril, et al
Journal article citation:
Aggression and Violent Behavior, 24, 2015, pp.241-249.
Publisher:
Elsevier

In order to establish the prevalence of mental disorders in juveniles who sexually offended (JSOs) a meta-analysis was carried out based on studies reporting on the prevalence rates of mental disorders in JSOs. Differences in mental disorders between JSOs and juveniles who offended non-sexually (non-JSOs) were also assessed. In total, 21 studies reporting on mental disorders in 2951 JSOs and 18,688 non-JSOs were included. In the total group of JSOs, 69% met the criteria for at least one mental disorder; comorbidity was present in 44%. The most common externalising and internalising disorders were respectively conduct disorder (CD; 51%) and anxiety disorder (18%). Compared to non-JSOs, JSOs were less often diagnosed with a Disruptive Behaviour Disorder (DBD, i.e., CD and/or Oppositional Deviant Disorder [ODD]), an Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and a Substance Use Disorder (SUD). No significant differences were found for internalising disorders. In conclusion, although the prevalence of externalising disorders is higher in non-JSOs, mental disorders are highly prevalent in JSOs. Even though results of the current meta-analysis may overestimate prevalence rates (e.g., due to publication bias), screening of JSOs should focus on mental disorders. (Edited publisher abstract)

Subject terms:
young sex offenders, mental health problems, conduct disorders, substance misuse;
Link:
Journal home page
ISSN print:
1359-1789

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