Trauma and Incarcerated Youth

The association of sexual abuse and witnessing traumatic incidents with mental health, behavioral problems, and suicidality was examined in 74 teenage boys incarcerated in Oregon. Sexual abuse had strong effects on suicidality and internalizing problems. Witnessing traumatic events had more modest effects. Those with both traumas showed markedly higher rates of suicidality. The effects of sexual abuse remained when controlling for neighborhood decline and family conflict, but the effects of witnessing trauma became insignificant. These results are convergent with other studies and suggest trauma is a highly salient issue for many incarcerated youth. Policy, research, and clinical implications are discussed. (C) 2005 by The Haworth Press, Inc All rights reserved.