Psychological trauma exposure within a prison population
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Psychological trauma exposure within a prison population: prevalence, associated disorders and outcomes
IRAS ID
207140
Contact name
Emma Facer-Irwin
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 1 days
Research summary
Traumatic events can lead to the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and also other mental disorders. Timely assessment can lead to interventions to treat trauma-related conditions, such as PTSD, and prevent the development of comorbid conditions and behavioural problems that may develop if a trauma history goes undetected (Nader, 2008). Although there is substantial research on the prevalence of trauma exposure and associated mental health conditions, in particular PTSD, in the general population, there is little research of this topic within adult forensic populations. The current study aims to examine the prevalence of trauma exposure, associated mental health problems (e.g. PTSD, depression, substance use), and outcomes (e.g. interpersonal aggression, self-harm/suicidal behaviour) within a population of sentenced prisoners at two resettlement prisons in south London (UK). It comprises:
1) A quantitative study of sentenced prisoners: Prisoners will initially be screened for exposure to trauma, then screen positives and a random sample of screen negatives will be invited to complete a full clinical interview.
2) A follow-up prospective study phase examining behavioural outcomes of trauma-exposed prisoners (e.g. incidents of aggression/violence, self-harm, suicide) at three and six months using records available on SystmOne and C-NOMIS (the electronic record systems for the prison estates, healthcare and offender management respectively).
3) A qualitative study to probe the experiences of prisoners who meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD, as well as their perception of support available
This project would be the first to examine the prevalence and consequences of trauma exposure and PTSD within an adult prison population in the UK. Findings from this PhD research could therefore serve to guide the development of trauma-informed and trauma responsive programming and procedures within prison systems in the UK.REC name
Scotland A: Adults with Incapacity only
REC reference
16/SS/0179
Date of REC Opinion
28 Nov 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion