Citation

Harrison KS, Rogers RY. Assessment 2007; 14(2): 171-180.

Affiliation

University of North Texas.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1073191106296483

PMID

17504889

Abstract

Mental health professionals conducting screenings in jail settings face formidable challenges in identifying inmates at risk for major depression and suicide. Psychologists often rely on correctional staff to provide initial appraisals of those inmates requiring further evaluation. In a sample of 100 jail detainees, the effectiveness of two specialized screens (the Referral Decision Scale and Mental Disability/Suicide Intake Screen or MDSIS) and one general screen (Personality Assessment Screener or PAS) was evaluated. For suicidal ideation, the MDSIS composite score evidenced promise (sensitivity = 1.00; specificity = 0.71). In ruling out major depression, the PAS Negative Affect subscale was useful for the inmate participants.

Language: en