Citation

Chitsabesan P, Lennox C, Williams H, Tariq O, Shaw J. J. Head Trauma Rehabil. 2015; 30(2): 106-115.

Affiliation

Centre for Mental Health and Risk, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Drs Chitsabesan, Lennox, and Shaw and Mr Tariq); Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom (Dr Chitsabesan); and Centre for Clinical Neuropsychology Research, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom (Dr Williams).

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/HTR.0000000000000129

PMID

25734841

Abstract

BACKGROUND:: Young people in contact with the youth juvenile justice system have well-documented vulnerabilities including high rates of mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders. Studies have suggested that they may also be at increased risk of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

OBJECTIVE:: (1) To describe the profile of a cohort of juvenile offenders with TBI and associated comorbidity with other neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health needs, and offending behavior. (2) To describe the development of a specialist brain injury service for juvenile offenders with TBI within custody.

METHODS:: Ninety-three male participants aged 15 to 18 years were consecutively admitted to a custodial secure facility. They were evaluated using a range of different neurocognitive and mental health measures including the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire and the Comprehensive Health Assessment Tool.

RESULTS:: Eight-two percent of those interviewed reported experiencing at least 1 TBI, and 44% reported ongoing neuropsychological symptoms. Eighteen percent of those sustaining a TBI reported moderate-severe postconcussion symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS:: There is a high prevalence of TBI in juvenile offenders in custody, with many experiencing multiple episodes. This study highlights the need for further research in this area. An example of a specialist brain injury linkworker service is described as one example of a model of service delivery for this group.

Language: en