Alexithymia and trauma in the prison population

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.

Grantor dc:publisher

University College Cork

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• de Búrca, Isobel

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Ryan, Christian
• Keating, Kim

• Alexithymia
• Prison population
• Forensic psychology
• Trauma Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
• Primary and secondary alexithymia

Statement dc:rights

• © 2025, Isobel de Búrca.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10468/17955

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:cora.ucc.ie:10468/17955