Improving thinking skills in young people in custody with mental health conditions using social cognitive and neurocognitive remediation therapy: A feasibility pilot study
Rene Jones1
1USYD and Justice Health Forensic Mental Health Network, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW, Australia
Abstract
Background: Young people coming into custody experience poor educational attainment, unstable housing, mental health concerns, substance misuse and limited family supports. These barriers can affect the development of learning, thinking and social skills. This in turn has a negative impact on making healthy life choices and accessing better job and social development opportunities. We have developed a targeted, culturally aware program using Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) and Social Cognitive Remediation Therapy (SCRT) to address cognitive deficits, enhance skill development and improve functioning across vocational and social domains. This pilot study tests the feasibility and acceptability of using CRT and SCRT as a combined treatment for young people in custodial settings.
Methods: Young people aged 16 to 21 years were recruited to 20 group treatment sessions over 10 weeks. The results are drawn from pre and post standardised measures and an evaluation survey. Analysis examines the feasibility of referrals, retention of participants and acceptability of the treatments.
Results: The feasibility and acceptability of the program shows encouraging positive outcomes. Improvements in cognitive domains were found in the initial groups. Feedback from participants was strongly positive and indicate the development of skills in their everyday life.
Conclusion: young people in custody face significant barriers to returning to the community and establishing an independent life. By participating in the pilot study young people in custody were assessed as displaying positive cognitive and interpersonal gains. It is anticipated these skills will help to prevent further mental health deterioration and enhance development of life skills.
Biography
Over the last 20 years Ms Rene Jones has worked as a psychologist in the field of child and adolescent mental health in Queensland, New South Wales and overseas in Ireland. She has carried out psychological assessments and conducted individual therapy sessions as well as group work treatments. In the last six years she has moved into the area of adolescent forensic mental health.
Currently, Ms Jones is undertaking a Master of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) at the University of Sydney through her current research.