1010CCJ_Module 11_Learning Video 2

Mental Health, Psychology and the Criminal Justice System 1010CCJ

Women, mental health and the criminal justice system

Mental Health of Female Offenders

• Overview of the mental health situation among female offenders in Australia.

• Part 2 of the assessment.

• Copyright information from Griffith University.

Snapshot of Mental Health in Prisons

High Levels of Psychological Distress

• 1/2 women reported high levels of psychological distress on entry to detention.

Mental Health Diagnosis Prior to Detention

• 2/3 women reported that they had received a mental health diagnosis prior to their detention.

Medication Usage

• Over 1/3 women stated they had been taking medication for their mental health issues before their detention.

History of Self-Harm

• 1/3 women indicated a history of self-harming behaviors prior to detention.

Prevalence of Mental Health Issues in Female Offenders

Comparison to Male Prisoners and General Population

• Female prisoners have a higher prevalence of mental health problems compared to male prisoners and the general population.

Gender Differences in Self-Reported Psychiatric History

Statistics Comparison

Trauma and PTSD Among Women in Prison

Overview of Trauma

• High levels of trauma and PTSD are prevalent among women in prison.

• Many cases of PTSD go undetected.

Definition of PTSD

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Characterized by exposure to one or more traumatic events, leading to:

  • Intrusion symptoms (distressing memories or dreams)

  • Avoidance of reminders of the trauma

  • Negative alterations in cognitions and mood

  • Changes in arousal and reactivity.

Substance Use/Misuse

Overview of Substance Use Disorders

• Substance use disorders are highly prevalent in the prison population compared to the general population.

• Evidence is mixed on gender comparison among prisoners.

Findings from Meta-Analysis by Fazel et al. (2017)

• Alcohol Use Disorder: 20% of women vs. 26% of men.

• Drug Use Disorder: 51% among women compared to 30% among men.

Comorbidity of Mental Disorders Among Women in Prison

Prevalence Rates

• No Disorder: 22%

• One Disorder: 17%

• Two Disorders: 17%

• Three or More Disorders: 44%

Summary Data of Comorbidity

• Highlights the intricate relationship between multiple mental health issues.

Conclusion

• End of Part 2 of the discussion on women's mental health in criminal justice.

• Thank you for listening. Copyright by Griffith University.