Violent offending in borderline personality disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

The prevalence of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is significantly higher among offenders compared to the prevalence found in the general population. Both disorders share important diagnostic characteristics and thus it has been suggested that they might follow a common developmental pathway. In this narrative review, we first discuss the potential links of disorder inherent symptoms such as impulsivity and emotion regulation difficulties and how they might elevate the risk of violent delinquency. We continue with highlighting that comorbidities particularly from the antisocial spectrum as well as comorbid substance use disorders need to be considered in the context of offending in individuals with BPD and ADHD. Finally, we summarize current therapeutic approaches for offenders with BPD and ADHD and associated challenges especially concerning the provision of treatment in prison settings. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Current status of the neurobiology of aggression and impulsivity'.

Keywords: Aggression; Antisocial personality disorder; Emotion regulation; Impulsivity; Response inhibition; Substance use disorder.