Trauma and offending in UK military veterans

Abstract

Veterans are the commonest occupational group in UK prisons. Understanding the possible links between UK military service and offending behaviour has been little researched. More recently greater acknowledgement of how military-related issues can have long-term implications has seen an increase in enquiry. This chapter considers psychological risk and protective factors associated with military service that may result in psychological trauma and pose as potential links to offending behaviour. It presents real-life experiences and discusses frequently reported psychological consequences of military service including PTSD, moral injury, transition. Consideration is given to the unique challenges Armed Forces personnel and their families face and how this can increase vulnerability to healthcare problems and additionally offending behaviour. Given is an overview of how current statutory, public, and charitable services are working with veterans and their families to develop apt and timely support.