Examining the Prevalence of ADHD in Juvenile Offenders, With Particular Reference to the Educational and Criminological Contexts in the Light of International Literature
Copyright (c) 2026 Miklósi Márta
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Abstract
Introduction: The effects of ADHD are wide-ranging, with researchers clearly linking it to offending behaviour. The prevalence of ADHD among juvenile offenders is significantly higher than in the general population, with profound implications for both education and criminology.
Objectives: In this study, we will explore the theories behind the development of ADHD as a symptom and diagnostic tool in juvenile delinquency, and explore the links between the educational challenges and criminological characteristics of these offenders.
Methods: To gain a thorough understanding of the topic, the academic literature on the prevalence of ADHD among juvenile offenders was reviewed (focusing primarily on international studies), mainly examining the psychological, educational and criminological dimensions of the topic. Not only studies, but also systematic summaries have been processed in order to gain a better understanding of the topic.
Conclusions: the main value of the study, besides the literature background, is to show the relationship between educational and criminological consequences. Early identification of ADHD in education is crucial because it can reduce the risk of delinquency by providing tailored interventions that address both academic and behavioural needs. Screening for ADHD among juvenile offenders is key, and addressing them is in all our interests as it can help to ensure that the juvenile becomes desensitised to re-offending by adulthood.
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References
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