Psychiatric Disorder among Adolescents in Custody

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Abstract
Objective: To determine the diagnostic breakdown and comorbid patterns of 100 consecutive cases referred for psychiatric consultation at juvenile detention centres, and to compare diagnoses according to gender and legal status. Method: Diagnoses were made at the time of an initial semi-structured clinical interview, and reviewed after follow-up. Results: There was an appreciable minority of young offenders with non-behaviour disordered diagnoses as well as a large number with conduct disorder and substance abuse. Conduct disorder and affective disorder were most influential on adjustment in the community. Conclusion: Psychiatric initiatives are essential in the management of serious young offenders.

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