In this study, the University of Exeter researchers sought to determine the rate of self-reported TBI, of various severities, in a male, adolescent youth offending population. They also aimed to explore whether TBI was associated with number of convictions, violent offending, mental health problems and drug misuse.
Young male offenders aged 11 to 19 years were recruited from a Young Offender Institute, a Youth Offending Team and a special needs school. A total of 197 participants were approached and 186 (94.4%) completed the study. They completed self-reports on TBI, crime history, mental health and drug use.
TBI with a loss of consciousness (LOC) was reported by 46% of the sample. LOC consistent with Mild TBI was reported by 29.6% and 16.6% reported LOC consistent with Moderate-Severe TBI. Possible TBI was reported by a further 19.1%. Repeat injury was common - with 32% reporting more than one LOC. Frequency of self-reported TBI was associated with more convictions. Three or more self-reported TBIs were associated with greater violence in offences and those with self-reported TBI were also at risk of greater mental health problems and of misuse of cannabis.
The findings show that TBI may be associated with offending behaviour and poor mental health outcomes. Addressing TBI within adolescent offenders with neuro-rehabilitative input may be important for improving well-being and reducing re-offending.
Click here for the full article from the BBC with interview from Professor Huw Williams
Reference
Williams, W.H., Cordan, G., Mewse, A., Tonks, J. & Burgess, C (2010) Self-Reported Traumatic Brain Injury in Male Young Offenders: A risk factor for re-offending, poor mental health and violence? Neuropsychological Rehabilitation, 20 (6), 801 - 812.
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