Violence Exposure, Mental Health, Cognitive Functioning, and Disabilities in Incarcerated Youth
Suzanne Perkins1, Sriamsha Dubbaka2, Erin Wang1
1University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.
Research Square
|February 6, 2026
Summary
High rates of cognitive disabilities and violence exposure (VE) are prevalent in incarcerated male youth. Addressing cognitive disabilities, especially in those with VE histories, may help reduce reoffending.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Neuropsychology
Background:
- Incarcerated youth often have complex histories of trauma and unmet needs.
- Understanding the intersection of violence exposure and disability is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of violence exposure (VE) and disabilities in incarcerated male adolescents.
- To examine the relationship between VE and diagnosed disabilities.
Main Methods:
- 115 incarcerated male youth completed self-report measures of VE (ACE, IPV, CV).
- Cognitive and mental health diagnostics were performed.
- Records searches and academic testing were utilized.
Main Results:
- Two-thirds reported high adverse childhood experiences (ACE); 90% experienced physical abuse.
- Over 75% were diagnosable with cognitive disabilities; 50% with mental health diagnoses.
- Youth with disabilities showed higher rates of VE.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive and academic disabilities, not mental health issues, primarily drive high disability rates in this population.
- Cognitive disabilities in incarcerated youth with VE histories represent a key intervention point.
- Addressing cognitive deficits may reduce recidivism rates.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Stress and Mental Health
954
Chronic stress profoundly affects mental health, significantly influencing mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. Research closely links chronic stress with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Ongoing exposure to stress can lead to physiological and psychological changes, initiating a cycle of emotional distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
954
01:10Higher Mental Functions of the Brain: Language
3.9K
Language is a system of communication that allows the expression of thoughts, ideas, and feelings. The brain processes language in both hemispheres.
Language formation and comprehension take place in the dominant hemisphere. The dominant hemisphere is responsible for understanding the meaning of spoken, written, or sign language, as well as the ability to communicate. For most people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one. The right hemisphere, then, gives tone and emotional context to the...
Language formation and comprehension take place in the dominant hemisphere. The dominant hemisphere is responsible for understanding the meaning of spoken, written, or sign language, as well as the ability to communicate. For most people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one. The right hemisphere, then, gives tone and emotional context to the...
3.9K
01:38Cognitive Dissonance
37.5K
Social psychologists have documented that feeling good about ourselves and maintaining positive self-esteem is a powerful motivator of human behavior (Tavris & Aronson, 2008). In the United States, members of the predominant culture typically think very highly of themselves and view themselves as good people who are above average on many desirable traits (Ehrlinger, Gilovich, & Ross, 2005). Often, our behavior, attitudes, and beliefs are affected when we experience a threat to our...
37.5K
01:26Higher Mental Functions of Brain: Learning and Memory
2.1K
Memory is one of the most vital higher mental functions of the brain. Memory is closely related to learning because it enables us to retain information and experiences from our past to use them in our present life. It also helps us to remember facts, events, and skills, such as riding a bike or swimming. There are two types of memory — declarative memory, which involves memorizing facts or events, and procedural memory, which enables us to remember how to do something like writing or...
2.1K
01:29Intellectual Disability
749
Intellectual disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in intellectual and adaptive functioning that manifest during the developmental period. This condition encompasses challenges in reasoning, memory, problem-solving, and learning, accompanied by impairments in everyday life skills, such as communication, self-care, and social interactions. Intellectual disability affects approximately 1% of the population in the United States, impacting an estimated 5...
749
01:25Learning Disabilities
626
Learning disabilities are cognitive disorders caused by neurological impairments that affect cognitive functions like language and reading, without indicating overall intellectual or developmental challenges. These disabilities differ from global intellectual or developmental disabilities as they are limited to distinct cognitive functions. Common learning disabilities include dysgraphia, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, each of which impacts unique aspects of learning.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
626