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Chapter 4: Reducing Criminalization of Mental Disorders

  • Page ID
    327698
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    Learning Objectives

    The following learning objectives tell you what is most important in this chapter. Use these statements as a guide to make sure you get the most out of this chapter.

    1. Describe the problem of criminalization of mental disorders, particularly among multiply-marginalized populations.
    2. Discuss the importance and impact of diverting people with mental disorders out of the criminal justice system.
    3. Compare and contrast diversions that may be accomplished at different points in the criminal justice system.
    4. Evaluate the role of specific interventions (e.g., mental health courts) in the effort to avoid criminalization of mental disorders.
    • 4.1: Chapter Learning Objectives and Overview
      This page discusses the criminalization of mental disorders in marginalized populations, using the story of Jamie to highlight the challenges faced when encountering law enforcement. It advocates for diverting individuals with mental disorders from the criminal justice system and reviews interventions such as mental health courts to address these issues effectively. Key terms are presented to enhance understanding of the topic and potential solutions.
    • 4.2: Criminalization of Mental Disorders
      This page examines the criminalization of mental disorders, detailing the negative impact on individuals like Jamie when they encounter the criminal justice system. It connects this to the deinstitutionalization movement, which failed to provide adequate community support post-hospitalization, leading to increased incarceration among those with mental health issues.
    • 4.3: The Costs of Criminalization
      This page examines the financial and human toll of criminalizing mental illness, detailing the high costs of incarceration and its impacts on mental health and community safety, especially for marginalized groups. It highlights advocacy by organizations like NAMI to combat this issue through education and personal stories, while connecting mental health crises with homelessness.
    • 4.4: Diversion from the Criminal Justice System
      This page discusses diversion in the criminal justice system, focusing on its role in redirecting individuals away from criminalization through support and treatment. It outlines the benefits of early diversion, like preventing offenses and reducing costs, while also addressing challenges, particularly for at-risk youth.
    • 4.5: Sequential Intercept Model
      This page outlines the Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) by SAMHSA, highlighting diversion opportunities for individuals with mental health issues in the criminal justice system. It emphasizes community resources to prevent system entry, non-arrest interventions, and mental health courts that support individuals instead of punishing them. While promoting sustainable behavioral changes, critics note potential system entrenchment.
    • 4.6: Chapter Summary
      This page discusses the criminalization of mental disorders as communities turn to the justice system for management, adversely affecting marginalized groups. It highlights the negative legal and financial implications and introduces diversion programs as alternatives to incarceration. The Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) is presented as a framework for identifying diversion points and enhancing community program strategies.
    • 4.7: References
      This page discusses the intersection of mental health, homelessness, and the criminal justice system, focusing on the criminalization of mentally ill individuals and the challenges they face in incarceration. It advocates for systemic reforms and improved mental health services.


    This page titled Chapter 4: Reducing Criminalization of Mental Disorders is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Anne Nichol (Open Oregon) .