NCJ Number
187963
Date Published
2000
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the provision of appropriate psychological interventions for Aboriginal inmates in South Australia.
Abstract
The Royal Commission that issued the report on Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (1991) recommended that Aboriginal inmates be provided with culturally appropriate mental health services equivalent to those available to the general public. The Aboriginal Services Division of the Department for Correctional Services for South Australia argued that such services should be "exclusive" to break down the barriers of mistrust between Aboriginal inmates and dominant-culture professionals. The author's position in the Department for Correctional Services of South Australia was created to meet this need. She is a psychologist who works exclusively with Aboriginal inmates. Numerous factors were considered in the process of developing an appropriate model of psychological practice in a correctional setting. In this paper, the author recounts her observations and reflections during this ongoing process. Gender, cultural, and confidentiality issues within an institutional setting are explored. The efficacy of a collaborative approach with the Aboriginal Liaison Officers working within the prison system is an integral part of an effective model of practice. Comparative analyses of pre-service and post-service use of psychological services by indigenous inmates supports the contention that "exclusivity" can play a major role in service delivery. 2 figures and 10 references