Trauma and Life Event Stressors Among Young and Older Adult Prisoners

• NCJ Number: 235179
• Journal: Journal of Correctional Health Care Volume: 17 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2011 Pages: 160-172
• Author(s): Tina Maschi, Ph.D., LCSW; Sandy Gibson, Ph.D., L.S.W. PhD; Kristen M. Zgoba Ph.D.; Keith Morgan, Ph.D., LPC, NCC
• Date Published: April 2011
• Length: 13 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Fordham University
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined lifetime trauma and life event stressors among young and older prisoners.

Abstract

This study examined lifetime trauma and life event stressors among young and older prisoners. A stratified random sample of young (age 18 to 24 years) and older (age 55 and above) male prisoners was drawn from the New Jersey Department of Corrections. Fifty-eight participants completed a modified version of the Trauma and Stressful Life Experiences Screening Inventory during face-to-face interviews. Approximately 40 percent of young and older adult prisoners reported exposure to violent victimization. Young prisoners were significantly more likely to report witnessing physical assault, whereas older prisoners were significantly more likely to report experiencing a natural disaster, life-threatening illness, or the death of a loved one. Information about the frequency of lifetime trauma and life event stressors can be used to develop or improve trauma-informed services that target age-specific needs, especially for young and older prisoners. (Published Abstract)