Is criminal behavior linked to childhood trauma and mental health disorders in offenders? : the perspective of mental health professionals

Abstract

This research explores the relationship between mental health issues, criminal behaviour, and early trauma to further understand offender behaviour and possible causes of crime. Further, it investigates current therapeutic and judicial practices, in view of contributing to the understanding of trauma and mental illness. Adopting trauma-informed and mental health-sensitive approaches within both criminal justice and mental health services is currently a topic of importance. In an effort to advance criminological theory and practice, this study examines the potential connections between criminal behaviour and mental health issues in offenders as well as childhood trauma. Adverse Childhood Experiences, such as abuse, neglect, and dysfunctional households, have been repeatedly demonstrated to raise the likelihood of mental health problems, which are linked to criminal tendencies. In order to determine effective preventative and rehabilitation techniques, this research employs qualitative semi-structured interviews with mental health specialists and with a judge to examine how adverse childhood experiences and ensuing mental health problems relate to criminal conduct and to consequent therapy, sentencing and rehabilitation. The study uses thematic analysis to find themes and produce practice-focused recommendations. The study confirms that childhood trauma is a root cause for mental illness and criminal behaviour. However, it is not the only cause. It is clear that not all mental-health sufferers will develop criminal tendencies and that not all criminals suffer mental health problems. Also clear is the need for further investigations into the process of assessment of the effects of childhood trauma and the diagnosis of any resultant mental illness, a criminal may have suffered. This will enable to development of interventions such as therapies, rehabilitation approaches and a justice system that is more trauma informed.