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Understanding Childhood Victimization Experiences and Mental Health Outcomes in a Sample of Prison Inmates in Northern Chile

Author

Listed:
  • Cristián Pinto-Cortez
  • Diego Portilla-Saavedra
  • Rodrigo Ferrer-Urbina
  • Diego Arias Diaz-Faes
  • Elizabeth Suárez-Soto
  • Marjorie Rojas
  • Javiera Carvajal
  • Alvaro Zamora

Abstract

Prior research has shown a link between childhood victimization and adverse mental health effects in incarcerated individuals. However, these studies have generally focused on physical abuse or sexual abuse and have been conducted in developed countries. Based on this background, the present study aimed to explore the associations between different forms of childhood victimization and psychological distress in a sample of individuals deprived of liberty in northern Chile. Data from 229 participants in a high-security prison were analyzed, incorporating six victimization modules including conventional crimes, caregiver victimization, peer victimization, sexual victimization, and indirect victimization. Correlation analyses and hierarchical regression revealed associations between different victimization forms and psychological distress. Notably, gender, caregiver victimization, and sexual victimization emerged as the key predictors of mental health issues in this population. Considering that many of these individuals may have been exposed to experiences of victimization in their childhood, it becomes crucial to prioritize their mental well-being as part of their rehabilitation process. It is necessary to continue deepening the understanding of these phenomena through studies considering the high prevalence of mental health problems among individuals in correctional systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Cristián Pinto-Cortez & Diego Portilla-Saavedra & Rodrigo Ferrer-Urbina & Diego Arias Diaz-Faes & Elizabeth Suárez-Soto & Marjorie Rojas & Javiera Carvajal & Alvaro Zamora, 2024. "Understanding Childhood Victimization Experiences and Mental Health Outcomes in a Sample of Prison Inmates in Northern Chile," SAGE Open, , vol. 14(3), pages 21582440241, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:sagope:v:14:y:2024:i:3:p:21582440241245516
    DOI: 10.1177/21582440241245516
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Marie Halme & Päivi Rautava & Lauri Sillanmäki & Markku Sumanen & Sakari Suominen & Jussi Vahtera & Pekka Virtanen & Paula Salo, 2023. "Educational level and the use of mental health services, psychotropic medication and psychotherapy among adults with a history of physician diagnosed mental disorders," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 69(2), pages 493-502, March.
    2. Emma Facer-Irwin & Nigel J Blackwood & Annie Bird & Hannah Dickson & Daniel McGlade & Filipa Alves-Costa & Deirdre MacManus, 2019. "PTSD in prison settings: A systematic review and meta-analysis of comorbid mental disorders and problematic behaviours," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 14(9), pages 1-28, September.
    3. Adrian P Mundt & Rubén Alvarado & Rosemarie Fritsch & Catalina Poblete & Carolina Villagra & Sinja Kastner & Stefan Priebe, 2013. "Prevalence Rates of Mental Disorders in Chilean Prisons," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 8(7), pages 1-1, July.
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