Four in five female prisoners in Scotland have a history of significant head injury, with sustained domestic abuse the most likely cause, according to research that experts argue bolsters the case for routine screening of inmates. Domestic violence was cited by 89% of survey participants who reported repeat head injuries. A first head injury before the age of 15 was reported by 69% of the women. Common effects of significant head injury include the impairment of information processing, impulsivity and egocentricity, which can increase the risk of offending. However, this research shows that a history of significant head injury is also a vulnerability and needs to be included when considering mental health needs and in developing criminal justice policy.

Source: The Guardian May 13, 2021 22:30 UTC