PREVALENCE OF PSYCHIATRIC MORBIDITY AMONG REMAND PRISONERS IN SCOTLAND

Background. Determining the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among remand populations has been made a priority in England and Wales. Diff erences in legal process and psychiatric services in Scotland make sim ilar research there important. Method. Demographic data were collected on 389 prisoners, the Clinical Interview Schedule was completed and c ognitive function assessed. Results. The prevalence of major psychiatr ic disorders was low. Less severe symptoms were more common. The sampl e was of average IQ, but low educational attainment. Reported drug abu se was high. Conclusions. Few of those interviewed required hospital c are, but other symptoms and drug-related problems may place heavy dema nds on prison medical and psychiatric services.