Trauma and Social Support Experiences of Imprisoned Men in Northern Ireland

• In Event: Prison Working Group: Needs, care and risk in the prison context: Challenges and implications

Abstract

Background: Social Support has multiple benefits for mental wellbeing and has been established as a ‘buffer’ to the negative impact of trauma experiences. Trauma can negatively impact upon social support, reducing the extent of social networks. However, some trauma experiences can also strengthen social relationships. Imprisoned men are disproportionately likely to have experienced a traumatic event when compared with the general population. Research has found that traumatic events can lead to a decrease in social support among imprisoned men. However more research is needed to understand the variations in perceived social support in this group as well as the relationship between social support and different trauma types.
Method: A cross-sectional survey of 384 adult men detained in the Northern Ireland Prison Service was conducted. The survey collected data on the men’s demographics, mental health, substance use, and criminal history. Respondents were also asked to complete a Trauma History Questionnaire (THQ) and the Multi-dimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Regression analysis was then used to investigate the possible associations.
Results: All types of trauma experiences were not associated with lower levels of perceived social support. Only those who had experienced crime related trauma were more likely to report lower levels of social support. Older imprisoned men and those using substances were more likely to report lower levels of perceived social support, while those who had served a sentence of less than one year reported higher levels of perceived social support.
Discussion: Trauma informed policy responses should be cognisant of these findings, those with experiences of crime related victimisation are less likely to have the social support needed to buffer against future trauma experiences. The findings demonstrate that some individuals experience lower levels of perceived social support. This will potentially impact upon them during release and affect their reintegration into society.

Authors

• Daniel McFadden, Queen's University Belfast

• Michelle Butler, Queen's University Belfast

• Gavin Davidson, Queen's University Belfast