Neurodiversity in Custody: Screening Results for ADHD and Autistic Traits in Individuals Arrested by the London Metropolitan Police
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Previous studies have identified high rates of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism in incarcerated populations. Despite such findings and the potential benefits of screening for undiagnosed autism and ADHD at earlier stages of police contact, such efforts are rare. AIMS: To screen arrested individuals for ADHD and autistic traits while in police custody. METHODS: Over an 8-week period, individuals arrested and detained at six police custody centres in London, UK, were offered screening for ADHD and autistic traits. ADHD traits were assessed using a modified version of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and autistic traits using the 10-item Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ-10). Screening was carried out in person at the custody site by a healthcare professional, designated detention officer or arresting police officer. Individuals who screened above the thresholds (≥ 21 for ASRS, ≥ 6 for AQ-10) were informed and provided additional information on how to seek a formal diagnosis. RESULTS: Of 303 eligible arrestees, 216 (71.3%) consented to screening. The screening tools identified 50% and 5% of arrestees without an existing diagnosis as warranting further assessment for ADHD and autism, respectively. ADHD and autism trait scores were correlated (r = 0.30, p < 0.01). Nearly 60% of individuals arrested for drug offences had an existing diagnosis or positive screening result for ADHD. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest high rates of ADHD and autistic traits in arrestees, particularly among individuals arrested for drug offences. Screening for ADHD and autism at early stages of police contact could serve as a key opportunity to identify undiagnosed individuals and inform appropriate management.
DOI: 10.1002/cbm.70018
Authors: Dion Brown, Tanya L. Procyshyn, Carrie Allison, Eleanor Neyroud, Simon Baron‐Cohen
Institutions: Metropolitan Police Service, University of Cambridge
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,570
Funders: Autism Speaks, Wellcome Trust, European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative, National Institute for Health and Care Research, University of Cambridge, European Commission, Medical Research Council, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre
OpenAlex ID: W4417197870