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

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.