Mentally Ill in Jail: Planning for Essential Services

• NCJ Number: 114818
• Author(s): H J Steadman; D W McCarty; J P Morrissey
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 256 pages
• Sale Source: Guilford Publications, Inc.
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This book provides an overview to the problems of and possible solutions for the mentally ill in local jails and possible solutions, within the context of a national study of jail policies and procedures in 42 small to moderate sized facilities in 26 States.

Abstract

Current standards for jail mental health services, as promulgated by various professionals associations are reviewed and criticized for their failure to address many of the practical problems encountered in a variety of jail settings. Mental health services available at the study site are described and four major approaches to service delivery are identified and illustrated. These approaches (the ad hoc, the identification, the identification and treatment, and the comprehensive approach) have distinct philosophies, goals and program characteristics. The perceived effectiveness of various organizational arrangements for service delivery and the extent of interagency conflict are analyzed, highlighting the tradeoffs associated with various approaches. Conflict between correctional and mental health personnel also are elucidated. Also considered are program development, staff and service changes, and the effects of litigation on services at the study sites during a 12-18 month followup. Overall, results of the study suggest that no single combination of program auspices or location was more effective in terms of reducing conflict and meeting service and safety goals than any other. Principles are delineated for planning humane, comprehensive, and responsive mental health service programs for mentally ill inmates that emphasize the community-wide nature of the problem and the need for community-wide solutions. A New York jail suicide prevention program and two broader, County-level community forensic programs in Colorado and Florida are provided to illustrate application of these principles. Finally a brief primer for mental health service providers is included. Chapter figure and tables, index, and approximately 150 references.