NCJ Number
130343
Journal
Journal of Psychiatry and Law Volume: 17 Issue: 3 Dated: (Fall 1989) Pages: 435-448
Date Published
1989
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This descriptive study represents a statewide sample of the initial 100 admissions to a female forensic center in Pennsylvania over a 3-year period.
Abstract
Of 81 adult females finally included in the study, 15 were recidivists and were readmitted for a total of 19 readmissions. All admissions were court-mandated, and court orders ranged from 5 to 365 days. Subjects were referred from correctional facilities throughout Pennsylvania. The women were likely to be psychotically impaired and to carry an additional diagnosis of personality disorder. The nature of criminal activity was more likely to be against person, and the nature of the crime carried with it the possibility or actuality of bodily injury. There were a significant number of serious crimes against children. Although the average number of criminal charges was 2.1 per subject, charges were more likely to be singular rather than multiple per admission. Isolation was one of the primary complaints of the women upon admission and during the course of treatment in the facility. A number of women did not have knowledge of available community resources to which they could turn for help. Study results suggest that many women suffered severe and debilitating mental illness. Yet, upon discharge, few provisions existed for their proper care and maintenance within the community. Characteristics of the women are examined by age, race, education, marital status, nature of criminal charges, length of commitment, length of hospitalization, diagnostic categories, and final disposition. The incidence of multiple criminal charges and multiple diagnoses is reviewed. 13 notes and 4 tables (Author abstract modified)