Attitudes towards mentally disordered offenders

Abstract

BACKGROUND This thesis provides an investigation into the assessment of attitudes towards mentally disordered offenders. Attention is paid to the adaptation and application of a psychometric instrument designed to measure attitudes towards this population. The aim is to facilitate attitude improvement of those responsible for the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of mentally disordered offenders. METHODOLOGY The range of methods employed to explore this topic include a systematic review, psychometric critique, and two primary empirical research studies. RESULTS The systematic review yielded 534 publications, seven of which were reviewed. Three instruments assessing attitudes towards prisoners were identified. This was followed by a critique of the most widely used psychometric; the Attitudes Toward Prisoners scale (Melvin, Gramling, & Gardener, 1985). Based upon this, the first empirical study validates an adapted version of the scale; Attitudes Towards Mentally Disordered Offenders scale (ATMDO). Analysis demonstrates a three factor structure, robust reliability (internal consistency and test-retest reliability) and validity. Between groups attitudinal differences are explored and a model is presented. In the second empirical research study the ATMDO demonstrates significant correlation of scores on factor one (Treatment) and three (Risk) with observed negative behaviours of staff members in forensic mental health settings. CONCLUSIONS The ATMDO has robust psychometric properties and demonstrates the potential for application assessing attitudes towards mentally disordered offenders within clinical settings. Findings can inform interventions targeted at staff members to improve their attitudes towards this population. Subsequently avoiding future potential for harm, improving care, treatment, and rehabilitation of mentally disordered offenders