Unique Aspects of the Correctional Environment

Correctional settings contain “clients” (offenders) that pose unique challenges for forensic mental health professionals. Both the physical and cultural environments of corrections can produce unique situations and issues that forensic mental health professionals must navigate in order to be effective clinicians within this setting.

Tasks:

Using at least three scholarly resources from the professional literature, research unique aspects and concerns of correctional settings. The literature may include the online library resources; relevant textbooks; peer-reviewed journal articles; and websites created by professional organizations, agencies, or institutions (.edu, .org, or .gov).

In a minimum of 300 words, respond to the following:

  • What aspects of correctional settings (jails, detention centers, and prisons) are most important for the forensic mental health professional to focus his or her attention? Be sure to include important ethical concerns unique to the environment.
  • How can forensic mental health professionals effectively manage the unique concerns identified?

All written assignments and responses should follow APA rules for attributing sources.