Citation

Nathan R, Wood H, Rix KJB, Wright E. Med. Sci. Law 2003; 43(2): 98-104.

Affiliation

Scott Clinic, Rainhill Road, St Helens, Merseyside WA9 5BD.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, British Academy of Forensic Sciences, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12741651

Abstract

The physical effects of CS spray are well documented. However, less is known about the impact of its use by the police on the psychological health of those exposed. In this study we explored the psychiatric morbidity of a group of 30 individuals who experienced the same trauma, a significant part of which was exposure to CS spray. Just over a quarter suffered post-traumatic stress disorder. It is proposed that more attention needs to be paid to the psychological effects of the use of CS spray by the police. Consistent with other studies, a past psychiatric history and a more external locus of control was associated with post-traumatic morbidity. The latter finding may have implications for psychological interventions after exposure to trauma.

Language: en