Reading Assignment for Section 8.1

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 8.1: Mental Health and Criminal Justice.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll delve into the complex challenges of identifying and addressing mental health issues within the criminal justice system. You’ll explore the legal and ethical considerations involved in handling offenders with mental health disorders, including concerns about fair trials and treatment ethics. Additionally, you’ll learn about the role and benefits of mental health courts and alternative approaches to incarceration, and analyze case studies that highlight the impact of different approaches. Finally, you’ll understand the importance of integrating mental health perspectives into criminal justice policies and practices.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 8.1

• SLO 1: Identify the challenges of identifying and addressing mental health issues within the criminal justice system.
• SLO 2: Discuss the legal and ethical considerations related to handling offenders with mental health issues, including fair trial concerns, treatment ethics, and rights.
• SLO 3: Explain the role and benefits of mental health courts and alternative approaches to incarceration for individuals with mental health disorders.
• SLO 4: Analyze case studies illustrating the impact of different approaches to addressing mental health in the criminal justice system.
• SLO 5: Summarize the key conclusions about the importance of integrating mental health perspectives into criminal justice policies and practices.