Sleep Disruption Stemming from Traumatic Brain Injury in Correctional Officers

• In Event: Violence Exposure and other Environmental Influences on Mental Health and Neurological Functioning among Correctional Officers

Abstract

Previous studies have suggested that correctional officers (COs) disproportionately experience traumatic brain injury (TBI). The complications that accompany TBIs, including sleep disturbances, may be further exacerbated by the demands COs experience at work, including inconsistent scheduling, overtime, and other work experiences. Alternatively, social support may serve as an important buffer, as previous research has identified supportive environments as important in TBI recovery. Using data from a sample of COs working in the Minnesota Department of Corrections (N = 381), we examine the potential impact of TBI on sleep disruption as well as the possible mitigating impact of various sources of social support (family, supervisors, and coworkers) on this association. Results indicate that officers who experience TBI, particularly from a violent source, also differentially experience sleep disruption. Further, this association did not vary across levels of social support from various sources. These findings emphasize the importance of the continued examination of the consequences of TBI among COs, including sleep disturbances, along with possible interventions aimed at limiting the impact of such consequences.

Authors

• Caitlyn E. Mann, Florida State University

• Joseph A. Schwartz, Florida State University