The Road to Crisis System Transformation: Evaluating Involuntary Commitment Policies and Practices

• In Event: Solutions at the Intersection of Trauma, Mental Health, and Policy

Abstract

This presentation addresses the gap in the literature regarding statewide involuntary commitment policies and practices, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the crisis network in the states. By identifying trends and variations, research can aim to provide actionable insights for mental health authorities, agency administrators, service providers, and state and local leaders to enhance crisis systems that effectively meet community needs. We will discuss a recent collaborative research project that evaluates the involuntary examination for mental health policy and process using secondary data from a sample of counties in one state. We anticipate that preliminary findings will highlight jurisdictional differences, shedding light on barriers to cross-system implementation as perceived by law enforcement, mental health professionals, and people with lived experience.

Authors

• Michele P. Bratina, West Chester University of Pennsylvania

• Mckenna Newnam, West Chester University of Pennsylvania

• Tori Rhea, West Chester University of Pennsylvania