Mental disorders in juveniles who sexually offended: A meta-analysis. (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Boonmann, Cyril; van Vugt, Eveline S.; Jansen, Lucres M.C.; Colins, Olivier F.; Doreleijers, Theo A.H.; Stams, Geert-Jan J.M.; Vermeiren, Robert R.J.M.
• Is Part Of: Aggression and violent behavior. Volume 24(2015)
• Page Start: 241
• Page End: 249
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: Juveniles who sexually offended -- Mental disorders -- Meta-analysis; Aggressiveness -- Periodicals; Violence -- Periodicals; Violent offenders -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 302.54
• DOI: 10.1016/j.avb.2015.06.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1789

Abstract

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to establish the prevalence of mental disorders in juveniles who sexually offended (JSOs). A meta-analysis was performed based on studies reporting on the prevalence rates of mental disorders in JSOs. Furthermore, differences in mental disorders between JSOs and juveniles who offended non-sexually (non-JSOs) were 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 externalizing and internalizing disorders were respectively conduct disorder (CD; 51%) and anxiety disorder (18%). Compared to non-JSOs, JSOs were less often diagnosed with a Disruptive Behavior 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 internalizing disorders. In conclusion, although the prevalence of externalizing 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. Highlights: Mental disorders are highly prevalent in JSOs. JSOs and non-JSOs do not differ in internalizing disorders. JSOs have fewer externalizing disorders than non-JSOs. Attention for SUD in female JSOs, PTSD in young JSOs and DBD in non-immigrant JSOs Attention for the underlying causes of mental disorders