PTSD, malevolent environment, and criminality among criminally involved male adolescents

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic and impairing disorder that is pervasive but often overlooked in the assessment and treatment of adolescents involved in the juvenile justice system. The present study examined the occurrence of malevolent environment factors (e.g., poverty, hunger), substance use, trauma exposure, and PTSD among 51 male adolescent offenders recruited from juvenile treatment facilities representing the highest level of security in Massachusetts. Participants completed self-report instruments and semistructured interviews. Much of the information gathered was verified with records kept by the Department of Youth Services. The results of the current study suggest that among male adolescent offenders, exposure to malevolent environmental factors and traumatic life events is common and rates of PTSD are high. We conclude that PTSD and lifetime exposure to potentially traumatic events should be assessed routinely in rehabilitative settings.