CRIM 355

The Intersection of the Criminal Justice and Mental Health Systems

This course explores best practices in which criminal justice professionals respond to individuals with mental illnesses. The course will also examine mental disorders within the ranks of law enforcement. Students are provided guidance and identification and management of dysfunctional behaviors that are indicative of reactions to emotional distress caused by mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and other psychological and/or substance use disorders. Students learn the importance of developing effective partnerships between criminal justice professionals, mental health clinicians, and other human services professionals. The course offers students an overview of crisis intervention team training for law enforcement personnel. Students are also exposed to the workings of a community agency that provides mental health services. Finally, misconceptions, cultural differences, and attitudes about individuals with mental illnesses are reviewed.

Units: 3.0