1
|
Wang X, Jiang L, Barry L, Zhang X, Vasilenko SA, Heath RD. A Scoping Review on Adverse Childhood Experiences Studies Using Latent Class Analysis: Strengths and Challenges. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:1695-1708. [PMID: 37594222 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231192922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) studies reveal the profound impacts of experiencing trauma and hardships in childhood. However, the cumulative risk approach of treating ACEs obscures the heterogeneity of ACEs and their consequences, making actionable interventions impossible. latent class analysis (LCA) has increasingly been used to address these concerns by identifying underlying subgroups of people who experience distinctive patterns of co-occurring ACEs. Though LCA has its strengths, the existing research produces few comparable findings because LCA results are dependent on ACEs measures and indicators, which vary widely by study. Therefore, a scoping review of ACEs studies using LCA that focuses on ACEs measures, indicators, and findings is needed to inform the field. Following Arksey and O'Malley's five-stage scoping review methodological framework, we first identified 211 articles from databases of EBSCOhost, PubMed, and Scopus using "adverse childhood experiences" for title search and "latent class analysis" for abstract search. Based on the inclusion criteria of peer-reviewed articles written in English published from 2012 to 2022 and the exclusion criteria of nonempirical studies and the LCA not analyzing ACEs, we finally selected 58 articles in this scoping review. Results showed LCA has been increasingly endorsed in the ACEs research community to examine the associations between ACEs and human health and well-being across culturally diverse populations. LCA overcame the limitations of the traditional methods by revealing specific ACEs clusters that exert potent effects on certain outcomes. However, the arbitrary nature of selecting ACEs indicators, measures, and the limited use of theory impedes the field from moving forward.
Collapse
|
2
|
Annett J, Tillson M, Walker M, Webster JM, Staton M. Adverse childhood experiences and mental health among incarcerated women: Self-esteem as a mediating mechanism. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 146:106486. [PMID: 37788588 PMCID: PMC10841516 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and mental health problems are interrelated. However, less is known about this relationship in incarcerated women and how self-esteem impacts this relationship. OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between ACEs and mental health problems (traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety) in incarcerated women with opioid use disorder (OUD) and, the possible role of self-esteem as a mediator of the relationship. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Incarcerated women (N = 500) were randomly selected from eight Kentucky jails, screened for OUD, and interviewed by research staff. METHODS Regression analyses and mediation models were used to examine the relationship between ACEs, mental health, and self-esteem. RESULTS ACEs were positively correlated with present mental health problems (traumatic stress, r = 0.407, p < .001; depression, r = 0.177, p < .001; and anxiety, r = 0.213, p < .001) and negatively correlated with current self-esteem (r = -0.241, p < .001). Linear regression analyses established that ACEs and self-esteem were significantly related to all three mental health variables of interest. Additionally, self-esteem mediated the relationship between ACEs and mental health. CONCLUSION This study shows that incarcerated women's experiences with ACEs are significantly related to poor mental health. Self-esteem plays a critical role in this relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaxin Annett
- University of Kentucky College of Education, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, 597 S. Upper Street, Lexington, KY 40508, USA; University of Kentucky Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 643 Maxwelton Ct., Lexington, KY 40506, USA.
| | - Martha Tillson
- University of Kentucky Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 643 Maxwelton Ct., Lexington, KY 40506, USA.
| | - Meghan Walker
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, E 1st Ave, Bowling Green, KY 42101, USA.
| | - J Matthew Webster
- University of Kentucky Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 643 Maxwelton Ct., Lexington, KY 40506, USA; University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Department of Behavioral Science, 1100 Veterans Drive, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Michele Staton
- University of Kentucky Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 643 Maxwelton Ct., Lexington, KY 40506, USA; University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Department of Behavioral Science, 1100 Veterans Drive, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chopin J, Beauregard E, DeLisi M. Adverse childhood experience trajectories and individual high risk-behaviors of sexual offenders: A developmental victimology perspective. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 146:106457. [PMID: 37725879 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developmental victimology theory suggests that developmental features of risk and impact stemming from various types of victimization depend on the age of the child or adolescent. OBJECTIVE A next step is studying the developmental victimization trajectories of individuals involved in sexual crimes by focusing on traumatic events occurring during childhood and adolescence respectively. Building on the developmental victimology perspective, the study's specific aims encompass two key objectives: 1) exploring the diverse trajectories of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) within a sample of individuals involved in sexual crimes, and 2) assessing whether these ACEs trajectories influence the emergence of distinct high-risk behaviors. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING 252 individuals convicted of sexual crimes were selected from a federal penitentiary in Quebec, Canada. METHODS Semi-structured interviews with a computerized questionnaire produced data on numerous aspects of the participant's life history, criminal career, and victimization experiences that were analyzed via latent class modeling. RESULTS Four classes (no ACEs trajectory, poly exposure and victimization trajectory, childhood exposure trajectory, and poly victimization trajectory) were identified. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with hypotheses, developmental ACEs trajectories are heterogeneous and associated with the criminal careers, adolescent problematic behaviors, substance use disorders, and violence history among individuals involved in sexual offending.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julien Chopin
- School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, British Columbia V5A 1S6, Canada; School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Batochime CH - 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; School of Social Work and Criminology, Laval University, 1030, avenue des Sciences-Humaines, Québec, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Eric Beauregard
- School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, British Columbia V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Matt DeLisi
- Department of Sociology, Iowa State University, 203A East Hall, Ames, IA, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Folk JB, Yang P, Thomas A, Lyon J, Patel J, Yoon C, Barbara-Robles-Ramamurthy. Comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents in a Juvenile Correctional Treatment Center: A Pilot Evaluation. FRONTIERS IN CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY 2023; 2:1207575. [PMID: 39220324 PMCID: PMC11364369 DOI: 10.3389/frcha.2023.1207575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Incarcerated youth commonly present with emotion dysregulation, aggression, and comorbid psychiatric disorders, yet often do not receive necessary mental health treatment while confined. It is therefore crucial to expand the evidence base regarding empirically supported mental health interventions which are feasible to implement in secure settings to address incarcerated youth's mental health needs. Through a community-academic partnership, the current pilot study evaluated a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy program implemented in a juvenile correctional treatment center. Methods Youth participants (N=113) were on average 15.37 years old (SD=1.10, range=13-17), 68.1% boys, and identified as 69.0% Latinx, 22.1% Black, 8.0% White, and 0.9% Native American. Youth received comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents (DBT-A), including individual therapy, skills training groups, family therapy, multi-family skills training groups, and skills coaching in the milieu by direct care staff who participated in extensive training and ongoing consultation team meetings. As part of a facility-designed program evaluation, youth completed a battery of empirically validated assessments of mental health and emotion regulation prior to and following completion of the program. Results Results show that comprehensive DBT-A is feasible to implement in a juvenile correctional treatment center and overall, youth improved from pre- to post-treatment in mental health symptoms and emotion regulation, with small to medium effect sizes. Conclusion These findings build upon a growing literature showing Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a promising intervention for treating emotion dysregulation and mental health conditions and can be successfully implemented in juvenile forensic settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna B. Folk
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Phillip Yang
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Anne Thomas
- Bexar County Juvenile Probation Department, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Jayme Lyon
- Bexar County Juvenile Probation Department, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Jaisal Patel
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Clara Yoon
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Barbara-Robles-Ramamurthy
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Bexar County Juvenile Probation Department, San Antonio, Texas
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pat P, Edin K, Jegannathan B, San Sebastian M, Richter Sundberg L. "Overcrowded but lonely": exploring mental health and well-being among young prisoners in Cambodia. Int J Prison Health 2023; ahead-of-print:628-640. [PMID: 37365938 PMCID: PMC10812882 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-02-2023-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Young prisoners are one of the most vulnerable groups in society for mental health problems and ill-being. Therefore, there is a crucial need to understand their physical, psychological and social situations. This study aims to explore young Cambodian prisoners' experiences and perceptions of mental health and well-being, their determinants and their coping strategies. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH Six focus group discussions were carried out in three prisons with a total of 48 young prisoners between the ages of 15 and 24 years (50% women, 50% men). Semi-structured questions guided the discussions, and thematic analysis was applied to analyse the data. FINDINGS Young prisoners reported multifaceted experiences of mental health and well-being. The majority described adverse mental health experiences, while some revealed better well-being, partly influenced by the socio-economic support from outside the prisons and previous involvement or not in drug abuse. The experience of physical overcrowding without emotional attachment among the fellow prisoners was perceived as the overarching determinant of loneliness and mental health problems, while socio-emotional support and rituals were described as the most important coping mechanisms. ORIGINALITY/VALUE This pioneering study from Cambodia gives young prisoners an opportunity to voice their experiences and perceptions of mental health and well-being in the prison setting. The findings in this study underline the importance of prison authorities tackling overcrowding to promote well-being and reduce mental health problems. Also, the coping mechanisms outlined by the participants should be considered when planning psychosocial interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Puthy Pat
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Edin
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kobrinsky V, Siedlecki KL. Mediators of the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Suicidality among Adults. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2023; 16:233-246. [PMID: 37234827 PMCID: PMC10205933 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-022-00510-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are consistently found to be negatively associated with physical, psychological, and psychosocial well-being throughout the lifespan. While previous research has established risk factors and noxious outcomes arising post-ACEs, less attention has been given to factors such as resilience, perceived social support, and subjective well-being that may help explain the relationship between ACEs and psychopathology. Hence, the objectives of this study are to examine: (1) the relationships among ACEs and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and suicidality in adulthood, and (2) whether resilience, social support, and subjective well-being mediate the relationship between ACEs and psychopathological symptoms. Cross-sectional data on ACEs, psychological factors, potential mediating variables, and sociodemographic factors were collected from a community sample of adults aged 18-81 (N = 296) via an on-line survey. Endorsing ACEs was significantly and positively correlated with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and suicidality. Results of parallel mediation analyses showed that social support, negative affect, and life satisfaction statistically mediated the relationships between ACEs and psychopathological outcomes in adulthood. These results highlight the importance of identifying potential mediators of the ACEs-psychopathological symptoms relationship to aid in the development of screening and intervention practices that could bolster developmental outcomes following traumatic childhood experiences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Kobrinsky
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, 113 W. 60th Street, New York, NY 10023 USA
| | - Karen L. Siedlecki
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, 113 W. 60th Street, New York, NY 10023 USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Oei A, Li D, Chu CM, Ng I, Hoo E, Ruby K. Disruptive behaviors, antisocial attitudes, and aggression in young offenders: Comparison of Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) typologies. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 141:106191. [PMID: 37084615 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) are associated with many deleterious outcomes in young offenders. There is a dearth of studies examining its effects on young offenders' antisocial attitudes, disruptive behaviors and aggression, risk factors for delinquency and reoffending. OBJECTIVE This study examined ACE patterns and their association with the above factors in young offenders. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING 1130 youth offenders (964 males; Mage = 17.57 years), provided self-reports on ACEs, antisocial attitudes, disruptive behavior ratings and aggression. METHOD Latent Class Analysis was performed on 12 self-reported ACEs, followed by Analyses of Covariance on each of the measures. RESULTS Four classes - Low ACE, Indirect Victims, Abusive Environment, and Polyvictimized - were identified. Polyvictimized youths had the highest levels of conduct problems (M = 70.35, ps < .05) and proactive aggression (M = 0.45, ps < .05) but did not differ from youths in Abusive Environment in reactive aggression (M = 1.02, p = .69), oppositional problems (M = 65.15, p = .18), and antisocial attitudes (M = 26.95, p = .21). Indirect Victims had lower levels of conduct problems (M = 64.80, p < .05) and antisocial attitudes (M = 24.35, p < .05) than Polyvictimized youths but higher levels of these outcomes than the Low ACE group. CONCLUSIONS Our findings showed that ACEs patterns vary in their effects on antisociality and disruptive behaviors. The novel finding was that childhood victimization does not have to be direct, as indirect victimization significantly impacted factors important to delinquency and reoffending.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Oei
- Translational Social Research Division, National Council of Social Service, 170 Ghim Moh Road, #01-02, 279621, Singapore; Department of Social Work & Social Service Research Centre, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, Blk AS3, Level 4, 3 Arts Link, 117570, Singapore.
| | - Dongdong Li
- Translational Social Research Division, National Council of Social Service, 170 Ghim Moh Road, #01-02, 279621, Singapore; Department of Social Work & Social Service Research Centre, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, Blk AS3, Level 4, 3 Arts Link, 117570, Singapore
| | - Chi Meng Chu
- Translational Social Research Division, National Council of Social Service, 170 Ghim Moh Road, #01-02, 279621, Singapore; Policy Research Office, Ministry of Social and Family Development, 512 Thomson Road, MSF Building, #07-00, 298136, Singapore
| | - Irene Ng
- Department of Social Work & Social Service Research Centre, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, Blk AS3, Level 4, 3 Arts Link, 117570, Singapore
| | - Eric Hoo
- Translational Social Research Division, National Council of Social Service, 170 Ghim Moh Road, #01-02, 279621, Singapore
| | - Kala Ruby
- Probation and Community Rehabilitation Services, Ministry of Social and Family Development, 1 Kay Siang Road, #01-10, 248922, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wente VM, Retz-Junginger P, Crombach A, Retz W, Barra S. The Suitability of the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire in Criminal Offender Samples. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5195. [PMID: 36982104 PMCID: PMC10048956 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20065195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are common in community samples and are associated with various dysfunctional physical, psychological, and behavioral consequences. In this regard, criminal offenders are at specific risk, considering their elevated ACE rates compared with community samples and the associations of ACEs with criminal behaviors. However, assessing ACEs in offender samples by self-reports has been criticized with regard to their validity and reliability. We examined the suitability of ACE-self-reports using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) in a sample of 231 male offenders involved in the German criminal justice system by comparing self-reported to externally rated ACEs to externally rated ACEs based on the information from the offenders' criminal and health-related files and on interviews conducted by forensically trained psychological/psychiatric experts. The accordance between self-ratings and expert ratings was examined considering mean differences, correlations, inter-rater agreement measures, and regression analyses. Offenders themselves reported a higher ACE burden than the one that was rated externally, but there was a strong relationship between CTQ self-assessments and external assessments. However, associations were stronger in offenders seen for risk assessment than in those evaluated for criminal responsibility. Overall, the CTQ seems suitable for use in forensic samples. However, reporting bias in self-reports of ACEs should be expected. Therefore, the combination of self-assessments and external assessments seems appropriate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vera Maria Wente
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany (W.R.)
| | - Petra Retz-Junginger
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany (W.R.)
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Department of Psychology, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbruecken, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Retz
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany (W.R.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Steffen Barra
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany (W.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Almeida TC, Fernandes RM, Cunha O. The role of positive childhood experiences in the link between childhood maltreatment and affective lability in a sample of incarcerated men and women. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 135:105969. [PMID: 36436298 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with a history of child maltreatment (CM) tend to show high affective lability (AL) and criminal behavior. However, positive childhood experiences (PCEs) may act as a protective factor even in the presence of child maltreatment. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to analyze the relationship between CM, PCEs, and AL in adulthood, identify the predictors of AL and analyze the moderating role of PCEs in the relationship between CM and AL in a sample of 424 incarcerated men (n = 343) and women (n = 81), aged between 18 and 73 years (M = 37.88). METHODS Participants responded to an online protocol consisting of a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), the Benevolent Childhood Experiences Scale (BCEs), and the Affective Lability Scale - Short Version (ALS-18). RESULTS CM was positively associated with AL and negatively associated with PCEs, and PCEs are negatively associated with AL. Regression analyses, after controlling for age, sex, and education, confirmed the role of PCEs on AL, above and beyond CM. However, moderation analysis showed that PCEs did not moderate the relationship between CM and AL for either men or women. CONCLUSIONS These results highlight the complexity of human development and behavior from early childhood into adulthood. Further studies are needed to better understand the role of PCEs in the relationship between ACEs and AL among inmates in order to develop more appropriate prevention and intervention programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Telma Catarina Almeida
- Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz (IUEM), Caparica, Portugal; CiiEM - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz, IUEM, Portugal; LabPSI - Laboratório de Psicologia Egas Moniz, IUEM, Portugal.
| | - Raquel Margarida Fernandes
- Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz (IUEM), Caparica, Portugal; LabPSI - Laboratório de Psicologia Egas Moniz, IUEM, Portugal
| | - Olga Cunha
- Universidade Lusófona do Porto, Portugal; Hei-Lab, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Alradhi MA, Moore J, Patte KA, O’Leary DD, Wade TJ. Adverse Childhood Experiences and COVID-19 Stress on Changes in Mental Health among Young Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12874. [PMID: 36232173 PMCID: PMC9566166 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has been linked to poor mental health outcomes and may be particularly damaging for young adults who may be more affected by governmental pandemic responses such as mandatory school and work closures, online schooling, and social isolation. Exposure to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) has also been shown to have a significant impact on mental health among young adults. This prospective study examined whether young adults with higher ACE profiles were more vulnerable to COVID-19 stressors. Using pre-COVID-19 data from the Niagara Longitudinal Heart Study and a follow-up online survey during COVID-19, we examined 171 young adults and found that high COVID-19-related stress, especially emotional and relationship stress, led to a greater reduction in mental health among young adults with higher levels of ACEs. Findings indicate that young adults with high ACE profiles may benefit from resources and intervention programs directed at mental health in times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meshari A. Alradhi
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Jessy Moore
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Karen A. Patte
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Deborah D. O’Leary
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
- Brock-Niagara Centre for Health and Well-Being, 130 Lockhart Dr, St. Catharines, ON L2T 1W5, Canada
| | - Terrance J. Wade
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
- Brock-Niagara Centre for Health and Well-Being, 130 Lockhart Dr, St. Catharines, ON L2T 1W5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gregório Hertz P, Müller M, Barra S, Turner D, Rettenberger M, Retz W. The predictive and incremental validity of ADHD beyond the VRAG-R in a high-risk sample of young offenders. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2022; 272:1469-1479. [PMID: 34860261 PMCID: PMC9653327 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-021-01352-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The VRAG-R is a well-established actuarial risk-assessment instrument, which was originally developed for assessing violent recidivism risk in adult male offenders. Whether or not the VRAG-R can also predict violent recidivism in young offenders is unclear so far. In the emergence of juvenile offending, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) seems to be of major importance suggesting that it could be relevant for risk assessment as well. Thus, we examined the predictive accuracy of the VRAG-R in a high-risk sample of N = 106 (M = 18.3 years, SD = 1.8) young offenders and assessed the incremental predictive validity of ADHD symptomatology beyond the VRAG-R. Within a mean follow-up time of M = 13 years (SD = 1.2), n = 65 (62.5%) young offenders recidivated with a violent offense. We found large effect sizes for the prediction of violent and general recidivism and re-incarcerations using the VRAG-R sum scores. Current ADHD symptomatology added incremental predictive validity beyond the VRAG-R sum scores concerning the prediction of general recidivism but not of violent recidivism. The results supported the use of the VRAG-R for predicting violent recidivism in young offenders. Because ADHD symptomatology improves the predictive performance of the VRAG-R regarding general recidivism, we argue that addressing ADHD symptoms more intensively in the juvenile justice system is of particular importance concerning a successful long-term risk management in adolescents and young adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Gregório Hertz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Marcus Müller
- grid.410607.4Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Steffen Barra
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, University Hospital, Homburg, Saarland Germany
| | - Daniel Turner
- grid.410607.4Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin Rettenberger
- Centre for Criminology, Kriminologische Zentralstelle-KrimZ, Wiesbaden, Germany ,grid.5802.f0000 0001 1941 7111Department of Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Retz
- grid.410607.4Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131 Mainz, Germany ,Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, University Hospital, Homburg, Saarland Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Barra S, Turner D, Retz-Junginger P, Hertz PG, Rösler M, Retz W. Mental Health in Young Detainees Predicts Perpetration of and Desistance From Serious, Violent and Chronic Offending. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:893460. [PMID: 35782447 PMCID: PMC9240463 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.893460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental health problems are common among young offenders but their role in predicting criminal recidivism is still not clear. Early identification and treatment of young offenders at risk of serious, violent, and chronic (SVC) offending is of major importance to increase their chances to develop into a healthy and non-criminal future and protect society from further crime. In the present study, we assessed mental health among 106 young offenders while incarcerated and analyzed their criminal careers up to 15 years after release. We found high rates of mental health issues, especially externalizing problems, but also concerning illegal substance and alcohol use patterns as well as personality disorders. Rule-breaking behavior and internalizing problems were negatively related to incarceration time until study assessment, but withdrawal and internalizing problems were positively associated with remaining time to release. Whereas, SVC status before assessment and after release were not statistically dependent, mental health issues predicted perpetration of and desistance from SVC offending after release. Alarming alcohol use appeared to be of specific importance in this regard. Findings indicate that young offenders at risk of future SVC offending may benefit from mental health treatment with specific focus on problematic alcohol consumption to prevent ongoing crime perpetration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Barra
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Turner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Petra Retz-Junginger
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Priscilla Gregorio Hertz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael Rösler
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Retz
- Institute for Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Exploring the Prevalence of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Secure Children’s Home Admissions. CHILD & YOUTH CARE FORUM 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10566-021-09660-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
14
|
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), antisociality and delinquent behavior over the lifespan. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 120:236-248. [PMID: 33271164 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is closely linked to the development of conduct problems during socialization in early life and to an increased risk for antisocial activities and delinquency over the lifespan. The interaction between ADHD and common comorbid disorders like substance use disorders as well as changing environmental conditions could mediate the course of antisocial and delinquent behavior with increasing age. However, this complex interaction is only partially understood so far. This review presents current knowledge about the association of ADHD with antisociality and the development of delinquent behavior. Thereby, the relationships between ADHD, conduct disorder and antisocial personality disorder in offenders are discussed, as well as the impact of comorbid psychiatric disorders and psychosocial conditions on offending behavior. Also, treatment studies in offender populations with ADHD are presented. Although our understanding of the role of ADHD in the development of criminal behavior has substantially improved during the last two decades, more research is needed to further elucidate the mechanisms generating unfavorable outcomes and to engender adequate treatment strategies for this population at risk. Moreover, more attention is needed on children with conduct problems in order to avoid antisocial or delinquent behaviors over the lifespan.
Collapse
|