The prevalence of visual disorders in the juvenile delinquency population

Abstract

Background: Juvenile delinquent and learning disabled populations have many common characteristics. Similarities have been found in their visual systems. This study describes the visual system of a population of juvenile delinquents from Folsom, California. Methods: The records of complete analytical exams which were performed by one examiner were obtained and a data base was used to create descriptive statistics on the 477 subjects. Findings are compared to OEP Expected Values, Morgan\u27s Normative Values, case analysis, and current studies in the literature regarding the visual profile of juvenile delinquents and the learning disabled. Results: The study revealed that the Folsom, California juvenile delinquent population has significantly decreased accommodation and vergence skills at near when compared with OEP Expected Values and Morgan\u27s Normative Values. They are a highly symptomatic group complaining of blur, headaches, and losing place while reading. Visual perception and ocular motility problems also predominate. Conclusions: There appears to be a significant need for plus nearpoint lenses and vision training for visual perception and ocular motilities among the juvenile delinquent population