Traumatic brain injury 'prevails among youth offenders'RSS Feed

Traumatic brain injury is far more prevalent among young offenders than across society as a whole, new research indicates.

Brain injury is associated with youths having a greater number of convictions, although the University of Exeter researchers were quick to clarify that this does not mean brain injury "per se increases likelihood of offending".

Offenders with two or three brain injuries also had a greater propensity for violent crimes.

Commenting on the findings, published in the journal Neuropsychological Rehabilitation, professor Huw Williams explained: "There may well be underlying risk factors for TBI and offending behaviour.

"These could include deprivation, lack of life opportunities, low concern for self-care, and even being a person who 'takes risks'. A TBI may be a 'marker' for these other factors."

In August, researchers urged traumatic brain injury to be reclassified as a chronic disease, with healthcare professionals indicating that the condition can impact multiple organ systems.

News brought to you by Serious Law specialists in traumatic brain injury

Posted by Timothy Walters

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