Examining Relationships among Past Traumatic Experiences, Current Opioid Use, and Criminogenic Risk among a Sample of Community Corrections Clients.

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

Elevated rates of interpersonal trauma have been documented in both males and females involved in the justice system. Some prior research shows that exposure to trauma is associated with criminogenic risk, lower treatment retention, and a greater risk for poor health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, personality disorders and suicide. Consequently, the aim of the current study is to examine the relationship that a correctional client’s past traumatic history has with present criminogenic risk, substance use, and general health. Additionally, the study will examine differences between subgroups of opioid users identified as: heroin use only, painkiller use only, combined use of painkillers and heroin, and any opioid used in conjunction with a non-opioid. These aims were addressed using a sample of 400 individuals residing in four local halfway houses. Participants were asked to fill out a battery of assessments on traumatic event history, current PTSD symptomology, substance use, and present health and wellness. Results of the surveys will be analyzed to determine the nature and strength of the relationship between past traumatic experiences, current opioid use and criminogenic risk. Practical implications of the findings will be discussed.

Authors

• Timothy Sweet, University of Cincinnati

• Amber Nicole Manzo, University of Cincinnati

• Kimberly Sperber, Talbert House