A case report of treatment of offence related PTSD

PTSD symptoms have been widely reported within the research literature following the perpetration of violent crime. This case study illustrates the application of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) within a prison environment using a psychological model of PTSD. The individual had endured a number of traumatic events and was experiencing symptoms related to memories of his index offence of murder. Following completion of therapy, symptoms were significantly decreased, and his functioning and level of distress was much improved. Implications are that offence related PTSD can be treated with CBT in a prison, and that thorough assessment identifying avoidance needs to be completed before offending behaviour programmes are targeted to decrease the risk of re-offending.

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