Undiagnosed ADHD in London Arrests: A Call for Neurodivergence Screening

A recent study conducted by the University of Cambridge revealed that approximately 50% of individuals arrested in London may have undiagnosed attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The research, which involved collaboration with the Metropolitan Police, examined 303 individuals detained over an eight-week period in 2024. It found that one in 20 individuals might also have undiagnosed autism. The study advocates for the implementation of informal neurodivergence screening for those detained, aiming to enhance access to support and ensure fair treatment within the criminal justice system.

The Guardian

The study utilized modified assessment tools, including the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, to evaluate ADHD and autistic traits among the arrested individuals. While these tools do not provide formal diagnoses, they can identify individuals who may benefit from further evaluation. Of the 303 eligible individuals, 71% consented to screening. The results indicated that 8% had a prior ADHD diagnosis, slightly above the general population prevalence of 5%. Notably, 50% of those without a diagnosis scored above the threshold for possible undiagnosed ADHD, with 17% exhibiting a high number of ADHD traits. Additionally, 4.2% had an existing autism diagnosis, and 5.4% scored above the threshold for possible undiagnosed autism. The study also noted that 60% of individuals arrested for drug offenses had either an existing diagnosis or a positive screening result for ADHD.

The Guardian

The findings underscore the overrepresentation of neurodivergent individuals in the criminal justice system and the potential for misinterpretation of their behaviors. Professor Sir Simon Baron-Cohen, director of the Autism Research Centre, emphasized that screening could facilitate more informed legal decision-making and ensure that defendants receive appropriate legal protection and counsel. Dr. Tanya Procyshyn, a research associate at the Autism Research Centre, highlighted the importance of early identification to prevent the criminalization of misunderstood behaviors.

The Guardian

While the study presents compelling data, there are concerns regarding the feasibility and implementation of such screening measures within police procedures. Critics argue that additional training for officers may be necessary to interpret screening results effectively and that systemic changes are required to accommodate neurodivergent individuals adequately.

The Guardian

The Metropolitan Police expressed support for the study's findings, with Senior Detective Dion Brown stating that early identification could help officers better understand behaviors that might otherwise be misinterpreted. The police aim to divert vulnerable individuals towards necessary support rather than through the criminal justice process.

The Guardian

“Prof Sir Simon Baron-Cohen, the director of the Autism Research Centre (ARC) at Cambridge, who was involved in the research, said: “Screening for possible neurodivergence will allow more informed legal decision-making, taking into account cognitive and communicative differences.” — Prof Sir Simon Baron-Cohen, Director, Autism Research Centre

The Guardian

“Brown added: “Early identification helps officers interpret behaviours that might otherwise be misunderstood and ensures appropriate support is provided.” — Dion Brown, Senior Detective, Metropolitan Police

The Guardian

The study's findings may prompt discussions on the integration of neurodivergence screening into police protocols, potentially leading to policy changes aimed at improving the treatment of neurodivergent individuals within the criminal justice system.

The Guardian