Pausing Mid-Sentence: An Ecological Model Approach to Language Disorder and Lived Experience of Young Male Offenders.

Dermot Fitzsimons,Ann Clark

doi:10.3390/ijerph18031225

Dermot Fitzsimons, Ann Clark

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18031225

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Abstract

International research evidence has firmly established a high prevalence of language disorder in young offender populations. Less is known about young offenders’ perspectives on their own language abilities. The study recruited an opportunity sample of 10 young men in custody at a Scottish youth offending institution who had recent experience of segregation. This mixed-methods study investigated participants’ views on their language and communication abilities to inform future support and intervention, and formal language assessment was also administered to investigate indicative prevalence of language disorder within the sample. It focused on their communication with professionals and peers in justice, education and welfare settings. Results of standardised language assessment indicated the presence of language disorder in 44% (n = 4) of the sample (n = 9). Thematic analysis of interview data led to formulation of three themes: Valuing Communication, Literacy and Learning; Exerting Control; and Seeking Support. The first theme is discussed with reference to Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Model. Participants offered reflective and rich views on their lived experience. They provided perspectives on features of successful interaction with peers and authority figures, importance of effective communication and the difficulties they encountered. This study argues for additional communication support for young people in the justice system.

Highlights

Young people who offend are commonly from highly disadvantaged backgrounds, live in areas with few amenities and have reduced access to educational services and employment opportunities which could otherwise further their individual development [1,2,3].In addition, young people who offend often have complex health needs, with trauma and adverse childhood experiences such as parental abuse and neglect common in their backgrounds [4]
This study argues for additional communication support for young people in the justice system
The presence of language disorder fundamentally reduces opportunities for young people with an already established pattern of involvement with the justice system to engage with the proximal processes inherent to the microsystems in which they interact with peers and others

Summary

Introduction

Young people who offend often have complex health needs, with trauma and adverse childhood experiences such as parental abuse and neglect common in their backgrounds [4] (for a comprehensive review). These young people have an increased likelihood of looked-after experience than their peers and are at greater risk of mental health conditions [5]. 60 to 90% of young people who offend have a language disorder [6,7,8], compared to a prevalence of 7.5% [9] in the general population. This has received attention in research and policy literature in Anglophone countries such as the UK, Canada, USA, Australia, and

Results

Discussion

Conclusion