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Description: A causal relationship between neurological trauma and criminality has yet to be established, but a correlation does appear to exist. It is estimated that as many as 87% of incarcerated individuals have experienced a traumatic brain injury. These injuries often are associated with behavioral and personality changes such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and aggression. This population also experiences higher rates of cognitive deficits such as memory loss and difficulty maintaining attention following their injuries. Traumatic brain injury currently is not being addressed on a wide scale within the justice system. This has created difficulties for this population as incarcerated individuals with head injuries frequently receive longer sentence lengths, have more rule infractions, and recidivate at higher rates than their peers. This article describes the unique challenges confronting this population while incarcerated and what changes can be made by correctional entities to help this group more successfully reintegrate into society.
Suggested Citation:
Horn, M. L., & Lutz, D. J. (2016). Traumatic brain injury in the criminal justice system: Identification and response to neurological trauma [Electronic Version]. Applied Psychology in Criminal Justice,
12(2), 71-86.
Keywords: traumatic brain injury, acquired brain injury, criminal justice, incarcerated individuals
Date: Dec 12, 2016 | File Size: 268.85 Kb | Downloads: 1441