Women’s Trauma in Relation to Criminal Conviction

Women’s Trauma in Relation to Criminal Conviction
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February 28, 2023
Recently, there has been increasing attention on the relationship between trauma and criminal behavior. Trauma can profoundly impact a person's mental health, and for many women who have experienced trauma, this impact can be especially severe. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of women involved in the criminal justice system have a history of trauma, whether from childhood abuse, sexual assault, or other types of violence (Tossone et al., 2017). Despite this, the criminal justice system has often failed to provide appropriate support and treatment for women who have experienced trauma, which can lead to other adverse outcomes such as recidivism.
This literature review aims to critically examine the problems and competing solutions related to women's trauma in relation to criminal convictions in the United States. Specifically, this paper will evaluate the existing literature on the link between trauma and criminal behavior, the experiences of women in the criminal justice system, and the various approaches that have been proposed to address this issue. Through a comprehensive analysis of the literature, this paper will argue for the necessity of addressing women's trauma in relation to criminal convictions to promote better outcomes for women in the criminal justice system.
Trauma and its Impact on Women
Trauma Defined
Trauma is an experience that is deeply distressing or disturbing and overwhelms a person's ability to cope (Mikulincer & Shaver, 2008). For women, trauma can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological abuse and experiences such as natural disasters or war. The impact of trauma on women can be significant and can include symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In a study of women who had experienced trauma, researchers found that many reported feeling helpless, numb, and disconnected from others. These symptoms persisted even years after the traumatic event (Courtois & Ford, 2013).
Types of Trauma Experienced by Women
There are many different types of trauma that women can experience, and these can vary in severity and duration. One common form of trauma experienced by women is sexual violence, which can include rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (2019), one in three women in the United States will experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetime. Other types of trauma experienced by women can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and childhood abuse or neglect. Each type of trauma can uniquely impact women's mental health and well-being.
Consequences of Trauma for Women
The consequences of trauma for women can be wide-ranging and include physical and psychological symptoms. Some women may experience physical symptoms such as chronic pain, headaches, or gastrointestinal issues due to trauma (Cohen et al., 2021). However, the most common consequences of trauma for women are psychological and can include depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Women who have experienced trauma may also stru...