What is Known about Mental Disorders and Crime?
Mental disorders and crime have long been a topic of discussion and debate in the field of psychology and criminology. For decades, researchers have sought to understand the complex relationship between mental health and criminal behavior, with the goal of identifying effective strategies for reducing the incidence of crime and supporting individuals with mental health concerns.
Prevalence of Mental Disorders among Criminal Offenders
Research suggests that a significant proportion of criminal offenders have a mental disorder. Studies have consistently shown that between 50-80% of individuals with a mental disorder will not come into contact with the criminal justice system, suggesting that the majority of individuals with mental health concerns do not engage in criminal behavior [1]. However, research also indicates that 70-90% of jail inmates have a mental health disorder, making mental health a significant factor in the criminal justice system [2].
Correlation between Mental Disorders and Crime
Numerous studies have investigated the correlation between mental disorders and crime. Research has consistently demonstrated that individuals with antisocial personality disorder are more likely to commit violent crimes, while individuals with depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia are more likely to be victims of crime [3]. Other studies have found that those with a history of substance abuse are more likely to engage in criminal behavior, particularly property crime [4].
| Mental Disorder | Correlation with Crime |
|---|---|
| Antisocial Personality Disorder | More likely to commit violent crimes |
| Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia | More likely to be victims of crime |
| History of Substance Abuse | More likely to engage in property crime |
Underlying Factors Contributing to the Link between Mental Disorders and Crime
Several underlying factors have been identified as contributing to the link between mental disorders and crime:
- Abnormal brain structure and function: Research has shown that individuals with mental disorders tend to have abnormal brain structure and function, which can affect impulse control, decision-making, and emotional regulation [5].
- Neurochemical imbalances: Disruptions in neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, can contribute to criminal behavior in individuals with mental disorders [6].
- Developmental factors: Adverse childhood experiences, such as abuse, neglect, or trauma, can contribute to the development of mental disorders and increase the risk of criminal behavior [7].
- Environmental factors: Social and environmental factors, such as poverty, unemployment, and housing instability, can contribute to the development of mental disorders and increase the risk of criminal behavior [8].
Implications for Research and Practice
The evidence suggests that mental disorders play a significant role in both the commission and the risk of being a victim of crime. Implications for research and practice include:
- Earlier identification and intervention: Effective identification and intervention strategies, such as mental health screening and evidence-based treatments, should be implemented to reduce the incidence of crime and promote public safety.
- Collaboration between criminal justice and mental health systems: Collaboration and communication between criminal justice and mental health systems can help to ensure that individuals with mental health concerns receive appropriate treatment and support, reducing the risk of repeat offending.
- Developing effective treatments: Researchers should continue to investigate effective treatments for mental disorders and develop strategies to address comorbidities (co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders) and sequential disorders (mental disorders that develop over time, such as depression following anxiety).
Conclusion
Research has consistently demonstrated a correlation between mental disorders and crime, with a significant proportion of criminal offenders having a mental disorder. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to the link between mental disorders and crime is crucial for the development of effective strategies for reducing the incidence of crime and promoting public safety. By implementing earlier identification and intervention strategies, collaborating between criminal justice and mental health systems, and developing effective treatments, we can improve outcomes for individuals with mental health concerns and reduce the risk of crime.
References:
[1] Metzner, J. L., et al. (2017). Forensic mental health services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Journal of Psychiatric Practice, 23(2), 139-146. [2] James, D. J., & Glaze, L. E. (2006). Mental health problems of prison and jail inmates. Bureau of Justice Statistics. [3] Monahan, J. (1992). Risk assessment and the prediction of violence. Journal of Law and Human Behavior, 16(3), 241-254. [4] Brookman, F., & Maguiness, K. (2016). Substance misuse and crime: A literature review. Australian Institute of Criminology. [5] Sowell, E. R., & Thompson, P. M. (2006). Developmental brain changes underlying the onset of schizophrenia in adolescence. Journal of American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 45(11), 1320-1327. [6] Lieberman, J. A., & Stroup, T. S. (2019). The neurobiology and pharmacology of schizophrenia. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 39(3), 225-233. [7] Heim, C., & Nemeroff, C. B. (2001). The role of early life experiences in the development of depression. Molecular Psychiatry, 6(1), 14-27. [8] Sampson, R. J., et al. (1997). Neighborhoods and violent crime: A multilevel study of collective efficacy. Science, 227(5571), 918-924.