History of Childhood Traumatic Brain Injury and Potential Risk Factors for Future Incarceration 8268

Abstract

Objectives

Research shows that children who are currently involved in the juvenile justice system have a higher likelihood of reporting a lifetime history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) than children who are not incarcerated. This presentation describes the association between childhood TBI history and select risk factors known to contribute to the likelihood of future incarceration.

Design

Data for this presentation come from the 2020-2021 National Health Interview Survey, a population-based national dataset based on an annual cross-sectional household survey. TBI symptoms, overall health, indicators of school functioning, and behavioral health issues were examined to describe lifetime TBI history, prevalence of developmental disabilities, functional limitations, and school-related services. Additionally, lifetime prevalence of TBI history was calculated and stratified by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to compare across subgroups.

Setting

Data for this presentation come from the 2020-2021 National Health Interview Survey, a population-based national data set based on an annual cross-sectional household survey. TBI symptoms, overall health, indicators of school functioning, and behavioral health issues were examined to describe lifetime TBI history, prevalence of developmental disabilities, functional limitations, and school-related services. Additionally, lifetime prevalence of TBI history was calculated and stratified by ACEs to compare across subgroups.

Participants

Participants are parents who have completed the National Health Interview Survey during 2020-2021 (N=10,277).

Interventions

Recommendations for interventions are to better monitor children who experience a TBI to their ensure health and well-being.

Main Outcome Measures

Behavioral health, social, academic, and ACES are the primary outcome measures.

Results

Approximately 8% of (n=10,277) children ages 5-17 years had a lifetime history of TBI according to parent reports. Children with a TBI history were twice as likely to have behavioral health issues, social and academic difficulties, and to have experienced ACEs compared with peers with no history of TBI, effects that align with risk factors identified for entering the justice system.

Conclusions

Youth with a history of TBI may experience health, behavioral, and social changes, many of which have been shown to be associated with risk of entering the justice system. Preventing and promoting better identification and management of TBI during childhood is critical. Such strategies, in addition to postinjury support and rehabilitation, may aid in disrupting the association between TBI and behavioral health difficulties experienced by many children. Preventing TBI in children and managing TBI effects may help youth avoid adverse outcomes and ensure health and wellness for children.

Disclosures

none.