Challenges in Treating Mentally Ill Offenders

In the study of forensic psychology, emphasis typically is placed on the individuals being served and their specific traits relevant to treatment. Forensic psychology professionals in forensic treatment settings must be familiar with symptoms of the myriad mental illnesses described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR). Additionally, treatment professionals must be well versed in the process of psychotherapy and other treatment approaches for the mentally ill. While many of the traditional counseling and therapy theories and approaches used with clinical clients also are appropriate for mentally ill offenders (e.g., empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness), forensic settings are not conventional treatment settings and may require special considerations.

To prepare for this assignment:

Review the course media “Incurable’ Violent Predators” from The Criminal Mind. Note the depictions of mentally ill offenders and consider treatment challenges associated with them.

Review the course media “Psychological Support for Violent Prisoners” from Inside Wabash. Take note of treatment approaches and programs for mentally ill offenders.

Review the course media “Housing of Mentally Ill Prisoners” from Inside Wabash. Pay attention to the special needs of mentally ill offenders.

Review the course media “Treatment for Mentally Ill Prisoners” from Inside Wabash. Focus on the various treatment options for mentally ill offenders and consider the challenges to successful treatment outcomes.

Select two challenges related to the treatment of mentally ill offenders in a forensic setting. Think about the steps you would take to overcome these challenges. Finally, consider what treatment approach(es) best addresses these challenges.

The assignment (2–3 pages):

Identify at least two challenges related to the treatment of mentally ill offenders in a forensic setting.
Explain the challenges you selected and the steps you would take to overcome them.
Briefly describe the treatment approach(es) you think best addresses the challenges you identified and why. Be specific.

Support your Assignment with specific references to all resources used in its preparation. You are asked to provide a reference list only for those resources not included in the Learning Resources for this week.