Mental Health in the Criminal Justice System

Catalog description

The objective of this seminar-style course is to explore the various and complex ways mental health and the criminal justice system are intertwined. Students' exploration will include an inventory of the literature/research related to victims, offenders, and criminal justice officials. Through discussion facilitated by the instructor, students will engage in a critical analysis of the criminalization of mental illness, mental health care in the correctional system, and community mental health care as it connects with the criminal justice sector. Topical issues include: history and contemporary societal responses; increased awareness and understanding of mental disorders; impact on the community as well as criminal justice professionals; legal aspects of mental illness; policy as it pertains to diversion opportunities and the treatment and management of offenders with mental illness. Engagement and innovative research/policy solutions are required from students.