Traumatic brain injury in juvenile offenders: findings from the comprehensive health assessment tool study and the development of a specialist linkworker service.

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.