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Abstract
While there is now a considerable literature on the extent of mental disorder (MD) within correctional settings, there is much less research on the correctional outcomes of offenders with a mental disorder (OMDs). This study contributes to that knowledge base by comparing the profiles and institutional and community outcomes of federally-sentenced Canadian offenders with, and without, a MD and examines the correctional response to their management. Results showed that OMDs had higher risk and need ratings and were more likely to be serving their current sentence for a violent offense. Outcomes for OMDs were poorer as reflected by higher rates of institutional charges and transfers to segregation, and higher rates of recidivism on release. This difference holds for the recidivism analysis, even when variables related to risk are controlled. The results demonstrate the complex needs of OMDs and points to the requirement for correctional agencies to provide specialized interventions that address both their mental health and criminogenic needs. Future research is required to examine whether type of diagnosis, particularly the degree of antisocial orientation, contribute to these poorer outcomes.
Acknowledgments
We wish to thank the Research Branch at the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) for their support in facilitating this project. In particular, we would like to acknowledge the contribution of Colette Cousineau and Brian Grant.
Notes
1. A larger sample would have permitted examination of a greater number of covariates, including interaction terms.
2. Rate ratios are calculated by dividing the OPY rate of one group by the other group. A rate ratio of 1 would indicate the rates of the two groups were the same. Since the 95% confidence interval excludes 1, the rate of the OMD group is significantly greater than the comparison group.