Alexithymia and trauma in the prison population
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Date
2025
Authors
de BĂșrca, Isobel
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Publisher
University College Cork
Published Version
Abstract
Alexithymia has been increasingly associated with criminal behaviour, impulsivity, aggression, and difficulties in emotion regulation, with research suggesting that it may be more common in prison populations than in the general population. Trauma has also been proposed as a potential factor influencing this relationship. The current research presents two complementary studies. First, a scoping review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to examine existing literature on alexithymia in offender populations. Forty-three studies were included, which generally indicated that alexithymia may be widespread in these cohorts and is often linked with aggression, trauma, and mental health difficulties, suggesting a possible role in shaping emotional and behavioural outcomes. Second, an empirical study explored the prevalence and characteristics of alexithymia within an Irish prison population, with particular attention to trauma history and the distinction between primary and secondary alexithymia. Thirty-five male prisoners completed measures of trauma (Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire, Trauma History Questionnaire) and alexithymia (TAS-20, APRQ). Results suggested elevated rates of alexithymia and high levels of trauma exposure, with many participants reporting multiple ACEs. Preliminary analyses indicated a modest association between observer-rated alexithymia and ACE scores, and cluster analysis pointed to potential subgroups that may align with primary (low trauma, higher alexithymia) and secondary (high trauma, higher alexithymia) alexithymia. Taken together, these findings tentatively highlight the value of trauma-informed assessment and intervention in forensic settings, which may help to support emotional regulation, interpersonal functioning, and rehabilitation outcomes.
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Keywords
Alexithymia , Prison population , Forensic psychology , Trauma Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) , Primary and secondary alexithymia
Citation
de BĂșrca, I. 2025. Alexithymia and trauma in the prison population. DClinPsych Thesis, University College Cork.