Exploring the Role of Trauma in Mentally Disordered Offenders
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An Exploration of the Prevalence and Nature of Trauma Symptoms in Mentally Disordered Offenders, currently detained in a secure hospital setting, referred for Drug and Alcohol Treatment.
IRAS ID
101402
Contact name
Nicola Piek
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Birmingham
Research summary
A history of chronic trauma is common amongst offenders and the majority of adult offenders in psychiatric care have significant trauma histories. Trauma in this respect is complex and includes PTSD(post-traumatic stress disorder, a history of stressful life events such as physical and sexual abuse, victimisation, violence (being a witness, victim and/or perpetrator) and insecure attachments. It may also relate to the experience of mental illness, the offence and hospitalisation.
There is a lack of research into the impact of trauma in mentally disordered offenders. This lack of recognition also means it is not an area typically targeted for treatment. Therefore in managing complex trauma, mentally disordered offenders may seek alternative coping strategies, such as drug and alcohol misuse as substances can be used to elevate or calm mood, stimulate feelings or reduce trauma related memories.
It reasonably follows then that mentally disordered offenders with substance use problems and trauma symptoms may struggle to achieve / maintain sobriety, impacting significantly on their progress through secure hospital settings and the risk of recidivism.
The lack of specific research represents a significant gap in the literature and this study seeks to establish the rates and severity of trauma in a secure forensic mental health population, and the relationship between the frequency and severity of trauma symptoms, misuse of substances and drug/alcohol treatment uptake.
REC name
London - Stanmore Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/0432
Date of REC Opinion
21 May 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion