Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Psychiatric Comorbidity Among Detained Youths

Abstract

To examine the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and comorbid psychiatric disorders among juvenile detainees. Participants were a stratified random sample of 898 youth (10–18 years of age) arrested and detained in Chicago. Among participants with PTSD, 93% had at least 1 comorbid psychiatric disorder compared with 64% without PTSD. Over half of participants with PTSD had 2 or more types of comorbid disorders (i.e., affective, anxiety, behavioral, and substance use disorders), and 11% had all 4 types of comorbid disorders. Among males, having any psychiatric diagnosis significantly increased the odds of having comorbid PTSD. Among females, alcohol use disorder and comorbid alcohol and drug use disorder significantly increased the odds of having PTSD. No significant difference in prevalence rates of PTSD was found between males and females with specific psychiatric disorders. High rates of PTSD and comorbid disorders among detainees argue for improved screening in detention centers. Implications for services are discussed in light of the clinical challenges of treating persons with comorbid disorders.