Case Study 1

Epidemiologyand Typesof Mental DisordersIntroduction:The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5, published 2013) consists of the diagnostic and assessment criteria for recognized mental disorders. There are over 300 mental disorders listed in this manual. Some of the mental disorders that we will be studying as they relate to criminal activity include schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma and stressor related disorders, disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders, substance-related and addictive disorders, personality disorders, and paraphilic disorders. Becoming familiar with symptoms associated with specific mental disorders allows us to communicate better when discussing the mental health status of an individual. In contrast, some believethat diagnosing a person has negative consequences by stigmatizing the person. In addition, “political conflicts” within and outside of the mental health profession challenge the concept of mental disorders.Epidemiological models of mental illness focus on the illness distribution in a population. The prevalence refers to the total number of cases in a population while the incidence refers to the number of new cases in a population. Using the epidemiological research, we can observe trends, assess group similarities and differences, and plan interventions for reducing mental disorders. Some of the variables that have been addressed in the studies include socioeconomic status, age, race and ethnicity, gender, education, marital status, religious affiliation, and region.The “criminalization” of mental disorders refers to the use of the criminal justice system to address and process those with mental disorders who are involved in some type of criminal or disruptive activity. Criminal justice professionals arefinding themselves overburdened with clients who have an untreated mental disorder. Failing to address the mental health issues leads to a cycle of problems. Recognizing problems with this process has led to innovative strategies, such as drug and mental health courts. Additionally, criminal justice professionals find themselves interacting with other professionals where conflicting ideas and practices may become a problem.

Assignment:
1. Discuss a mental disorder that has a strong relationship to criminalactivity. Please provide a description of the symptoms of the mental disorder.
2. How is the mental disorder distributed in thegeneralpopulationand the correctional population(the epidemiological findings for the specific mental
disorder)?
3. How do you believe that this disorder has become criminalized and what types of political or policy conflicts are present in the criminal justice system and society?
4. Please respond to one of your colleagues.

Last Completed Projects