Abstract
Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCs) are an increasing concern in prisons yet their relationship to wellbeing is poorly understood. The primary aim of this study was to examine psychological distress in those who do and do not use SCs in prison. Secondary aims were to examine sociodemographic differences between the groups, identify reasons for SC use and assess helpfulness ratings of intervention areas to reduce SC use.A cross-sectional in-person survey was conducted with 105 participants in one male local prison in the South-West of England.
The primary outcome, psychological distress, was measured using the brief symptom inventory (BSI-18). Secondary outcomes included age, ethnicity, highest educational attainment, living situation prior to prison, remand status, length of time in prison and drug use inside and outside of prison. Reasons for use and areas for intervention were also rated by participants. 46 (43.8%) participants had used SCs in prison, of whom 24 had used within the last month (52.2%). Participants in the SC use group had higher psychological distress than the non-use group on the BSI-18 (t(103) = 3.28, p = .004, BCa 95% CI [3.73, 14.25], d = 0.64). The SC use group were more likely to have been in prison before, received drug treatment in prison, experienced unstable housing prior to the current incarceration and used most drugs in the community and in prison compared to the non-use group. The most common reason for SC use was to deal with boredom (88.9%).
Participants rated use of time support, such as increased work or education, as the most helpful area to support SC cessation. People who use SCs in prison have higher levels of psychological distress than those who do not. Interventions to reduce SC use in prisons could focus on increasing structured activity and psychological support.
Date of Award | 22 Sept 2023 |
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Original language | English |
Awarding Institution |
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Supervisor | Tom Freeman (Supervisor), Pamela Jacobsen (Supervisor) & Ben Frayne (Supervisor) |