This article details how neuroscience inquiries are making important inroads in the field of correctional research, traditionally the domain of the social sciences. Recently the neuroscience field has yielded two significant contributions to NIJ-supported studies on correctional officer wellness, and reentry. First, neuroscience data and biological and physiological markers have emerged as an invaluable source of data augmenting what correctional officers themselves are reporting about their stress levels. Second, it is becoming increasingly clear that many justice-involved individuals may suffer from a past traumatic brain injury and that the lingering effects of that trauma may contribute to their criminal justice involvement and act as a barrier to their successful reentry. Understanding the prevalence and consequences of past brain trauma among that population, particularly in terms of criminogenic risk and needs, will facilitate effective reentry programing.
Emerging Relevance of Neuroscience in Corrections
NCJ Number
306049
Date Published
March 2023
Abstract
Date Published: March 1, 2023