NCJ Number
213385
Journal
Substance Use & Misuse Volume: 41 Issue: 3 Dated: 2006 Pages: 415-422
Date Published
2006
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study explored the relationships of conduct problems, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, and depression to substance use among incarcerated youthful offenders in South Australia.
Abstract
Results indicated that conduct problems, ADHD symptoms, and depression were all significantly related to recent substance use. Moreover, ADHD symptoms and conduct problems predicted future substance use. Given the importance of ADHD symptoms in predicting substance use among youthful offenders, treatment of substance use disorders for this population should also address their arousal needs. Participants were 900 youths incarcerated in 2 youth detention centers in South Australia between 1994 and 1999. Participants completed a routine psychosocial screening questionnaire at intake and 206 of the youths also completed re-assessment questionnaires when readmitted to secure care. Data analysis techniques included zero-order product correlations. Future studies should attempt to replicate these findings with samples of non-incarcerated offenders. Table, references