Developing jail mental health services

About this book

This document presents findings from a study conducted to examine the relationships between jails which were represented at the 1978 Special National Workshop on Mental Health Services in Local Jails and the various components of their local mental health systems. Chapter I explains the origins and scope of the study, describes the sample of 33 jails located in 26 states and methods of data collection, and provides an overview of monograph goals. Chapter II presents a distillation and review of current standards for jail mental health services as promulgated by different professional associations. Chapter III describes mental health services that were available in study sites at the time of initial field work. Four distinctive approaches to service delivery are identified and capsule profiles of each type are included. Chapter IV analyzes responses to survey questions dealing with the perceived effectiveness of various organizational arrangements for providing inmate mental health services on study sites. Chapter V focuses on the frequency and scope of staff conflict among mental health and correctional personnel in study sites. Chapter VI addresses subsequent developments and changes made at study sites in the 12 to 18 months following initial site visits. Chapter VII presents a summary and conclusions concerning study findings and their implications for mental health program planning for local jails. Lists of references, cases cited, and participating sites are included.