Long-term psychiatric morbidity in the aftermath of CS spray trauma.
The physical effects of CS spray are well documented. However, less is known about the impact of its use by the police on the psychological health of those exposed. In this study we explored the psychiatric morbidity of a group of 30 individuals who experienced the same trauma, a significant part of which was exposure to CS spray. Just over a quarter suffered post-traumatic stress disorder. It is proposed that more attention needs to be paid to the psychological effects of the use of CS spray by the police. Consistent with other studies, a past psychiatric history and a more external locus of control was associated with post-traumatic morbidity. The latter finding may have implications for psychological interventions after exposure to trauma.
Scott Clinic, Rainhill Road, St Helens, Merseyside WA9 5BD.
Rajan
R
Nathan
Harry
H
Wood
Keith
K
Rix
Eric
E
Wright
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005555:Forensic Psychiatry / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016495:Police / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000378:metabolism / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D006113:United Kingdom / Q000453:epidemiology; D014754:Violence; D009763:o-Chlorobenzylidenemalonitrile / Q000009:adverse effects*
D009763:o-Chlorobenzylidenemalonitrile