Gender Differences in the Relationship Between Mental Illness and Prison Misconduct

• In Event: Gender Differences in Corrections

Abstract

Mental illness has been linked to offending, particularly violence (Elbogen & Johnson, 2009; Fazel & Grann, 2006). In the prison literature, mental illness is associated with engaging in prison misconduct (Houser & Belenko, 2015; Wood, 2012). Few studies have examined the relationship between prison misconduct and different mental disorders. Additionally, little is known about whether there are gender differences in the effects of mental illness on the risk of engaging in misconduct. Behavioral differences might exist since females experience more internalizing disorders whereas males typically experience externalizing disorders (Rosenfield, 2013). Given the differences in the types of disorder experienced, it is likely that there are gender differences in rule breaking behaviors that manifest from mental illness. Using the Survey of Inmates in State and Federal Correctional Facilities (2004) data, the current study examines the relationship between specific mental disorders and misconduct, and whether this relationship is gendered. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.

Authors

• Jane Daquin, Georgia State University

• Leah E. Daigle, Georgia State University