Many scholars have proposed that involvement in the Criminal Justice (CJ) system and the stress of re-entry should be considered a form of trauma. The phrase Post-Conviction Traumatic Stress (PCTS) was recently introduced to capture the cognitive-emotional and physiological symptoms of trauma resulting from contact with the criminal justice system (CJS). The construct was empirically validated using the Post-Traumatic Stress Checklist for DSM-5. This workshop will first describe the construct of PCTS, grounded in theory and research about traumatic stress related to CJS involvement. The link between trauma-induced dysregulation and dynamic risk factors will be described. The second half of the workshop will focus on specific strategies to identify and address PCTS, including psychoeducation, tools for identifying triggers, mindfulness, cognitive interventions for intrusive thoughts, expressive arts, grounding exercises, client self-care, resilience-building, and facilitating post-traumatic growth. The concepts and skills discussed in the workshop can be used in the context of programs designed to address criminal behavior, prevent relapse, and reduce recidivism risk. By incorporating trauma-informed, trauma-responsive, and trauma-specific services, we can re-envision CJS programs to reduce dysregulation, manage dynamic risk, improve coping skills, and enhance client well-being – all of which contribute to goals of community safety.
 

Audience Level: Intermediate: Appropriate for attendees who have been in the field 5-10 years and have basic information on a topic.
 

Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:
1.Define post-conviction traumatic stress.
2. Describe at least two common causes, symptoms, and manifestations.
3. Explain how post-conviction traumatic stress intersects with intergenerational and historical trauma, systemic oppression, stigma, and discrimination.
4. Apply two trauma-specific skills and tools for identifying and treating post-conviction traumatic stress.

This session was originally recorded at the 21st annual IVAT Hawai`i Summit.