Trauma in Female Forensic Psychiatric Patients: A Mixed-Method Study into the Clinical Practice of Trauma-Focused Treatment

Vivienne de Vogel (), Juul Depla and Marije Keulen- de Vos
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Vivienne de Vogel: Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Maastricht, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
Juul Depla: Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Maastricht, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
Marije Keulen- de Vos: Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Maastricht, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands

Social Sciences, 2025, vol. 14, issue 3, 1-23

Abstract: Research shows that victimization rates in forensic mental health care are high for both female and male patients. However, gender differences have been found in types and patterns of victimization (more sexual abuse and more complex trauma for women), cognitive appraisal, and response to traumatic events. Gender-responsive treatments focusing on trauma have been designed to adhere to these gender differences; however, despite promising research results, these interventions are yet to be introduced in many settings. This study examined how trauma is addressed in current clinical practice in Dutch forensic mental health care, whether professionals are knowledgeable of gender differences in trauma, and how gender-responsive factors such as self-esteem, self-efficacy, social relations, and coping skills are considered in treatment for female patients. We used a mixed-method design consisting of an online survey and 33 semi-structured interviews with professionals and patients. The results suggested that Dutch forensic mental health care could address trauma more structurally, and professionals could be more aware of gender differences and gender-responsive factors. Early start of trauma treatment was deemed important but was not current practice according to patients. Based on this study, guidelines were developed for gender-responsive, trauma-informed work in forensic mental health care.

Keywords: trauma; victimization; gender responsive; forensic mental health care (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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