Police Interactions with Persons with Mental Illness: A Review of Approaches to Education and Training

• In Event: Providing Mental Health Services in the Correctional system

Abstract

Operational policing inevitably involves contact with persons with mental illness (PWMI). Despite the relatively high level of interaction, research has shown that police feel underprepared for such encounters. The current research provides a comprehensive review of existing literature relevant to police training in this context. The review identifies current knowledge of best practice approaches to police education and training. It draws key conclusions to guide the development of more effective police training programs, which in turn, will result in better quality outcomes for PWMI.

Authors

• Jacqueline Drew, Griffith University

• Belinda Crissman, Griffith University