Violent Offenders with Schizophrenia (From Different Crimes Different Criminals: Understanding, Treating and Preventing Criminal Behavior, P 259-283, 2006, Doris Layton MacKenzie, Lauren O’Neill, et al. eds. -- See NCJ-217024)

• NCJ Number: 217035
• Author(s): Michael Krezmien; Nancy Minniti
• Date Published: 2006
• Length: 25 pages
• Sale Source: Anderson Publishing Co
• Publication Format: Book (Softbound)
• Publication Type: Curriculum
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter explores the assessment and treatment of violent offenders with schizophrenia.

Abstract

The authors argue that through a two-part model involving comprehensive assessment and scientifically validated treatments, schizophrenia may be effectively treated. Moreover, if appropriately implemented in a corrections setting, this model may result in a decline in recidivism for violent offenders with schizophrenia. Before presenting their proposed model, the authors discuss the characteristics of persons with severe mental illness (PSMI) along with the characteristics and symptoms of schizophrenia. The dual diagnosis of schizophrenia and substance use disorder is common among violent offenders with mental illness. Research indicates that 40 to 50 percent of individuals with schizophrenia also have a substance use disorder and that up to 92 percent of incarcerated schizophrenics also have a substance use disorder. The difficulty of effectively identifying and treating this group of offenders within the corrections industry is reviewed, followed by a discussion of the criminalization of mental illness in the United States. The authors then outline their proposed theoretical framework for treating violent offenders with schizophrenia. The treatment model combines regulatory drug therapy with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which have both been proven effective treatments for persons with schizophrenia. Treatment protocols for violent offenders with schizophrenia should be based on four principles: (1) treatments should directly address criminogenic factors; (2) treatments should have therapeutic integrity; (3) treatments should target offenders who are at risk for recidivism; and (4) treatment should be delivered in a mode that addresses individual learning styles. Current research on schizophrenia and violent recidivism is reviewed which suggests that the typical correctional treatments for violent offenders with schizophrenia are not effective for reducing violent recidivism among this group. Future research should examine the symptomatology associated with violent behavior. References