BACKGROUND: Determining the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among remand populations has been made a priority in England and Wales. Differences in legal process and psychiatric services in Scotland make similar research there important. METHOD: Demographic data were collected on 389 prisoners, the clinical Interview Schedule was completed and cognitive function assessed. RESULTS: The prevalence of major psychiatric disorders was low. Less severe symptoms were more common. The sample was of average IQ, but low educational attainment. Reported drug abuse was high. CONCLUSIONS: Few of those interviewed required hospital care, but other symptoms and drug-related problems may place heavy demands on prison medical and psychiatric services.
BACKGROUND: Determining the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among remand populations has been made a priority in England and Wales. Differences in legal process and psychiatric services in Scotland make similar research there important. METHOD: Demographic data were collected on 389 prisoners, the clinical Interview Schedule was completed and cognitive function assessed. RESULTS: The prevalence of major psychiatric disorders was low. Less severe symptoms were more common. The sample was of average IQ, but low educational attainment. Reported drug abuse was high. CONCLUSIONS: Few of those interviewed required hospital care, but other symptoms and drug-related problems may place heavy demands on prison medical and psychiatric services.
Authors: Louise Robinson; Michael D Spencer; Lindsay D G Thomson; Andrew C Stanfield; David G C Owens; Jeremy Hall; Eve C Johnstone Journal: PLoS One Date: 2012-05-25 Impact factor: 3.240
Authors: Paul E Bebbington; Sally McManus; Jeremy W Coid; Richard Garside; Terry Brugha Journal: Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol Date: 2021-03-22 Impact factor: 4.328