An Exploratory Analysis of the Role A Mental Health Diagnosis Plays in Disciplinary Segregation Outcomes

• In Event: Mental and Behavioral Health in Prisons and Jails

Abstract

Mental health problems have become a common occurrence in American correctional settings. Recent estimates state that over half of all inmates reported evidence of mental health problems; similarly, roughly half of inmates report symptoms of mental health problems. Mental health problems in the correctional setting have been linked to the increased likelihood of misconduct as well as the severity of disciplinary action within prison. However, mental health symptoms have not been widely researched in their impact on various aspects of the prison experience. This study will determine the extent to which a mental health diagnosis impacts the likelihood of violent misconduct, the receipt of disciplinary segregation, and the utilization of mental health treatment services using a large, nationally representative sample of state prison inmates. Limitations and policy implications will be discussed.

Author

• Rachel Severson, University of South Florida