Why should people reentering the community who need health care receive more routine assessment and treatment for past traumas?
Research shows that the vast majority of incarcerated people have histories of childhood trauma, especially childhood abuse. For example, a recent study of men incarcerated in a county jail reported that 59 percent acknowledged some form of sexual abuse occurring before age 13.34 A jail survey of women found 48 percent had a history of physical or sexual abuse and 27 percent reported rape.35 A history of abuse, as well as other forms of trauma, is especially likely for people in the criminal justice system who struggle with mental health and/or substance use disorders. Healthcare providers need to consider past traumas when connecting reentering individuals with community-based care.‡ Reentry programs that recognize that trauma experiences are so pervasive in justice-involved populations can help individuals avoid re-traumatization and improve the safety of the correctional staff and those incarcerated. Treatment programs should recognize the individual’s need to be respected, informed
