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Abstract
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BACKGROUND: Mental health screening and assessment is crucial within juvenile correctional facilities (JC). However, limited information is available about the current screening and assessment procedures specifically within JC.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the current study was to obtain information about the mental health screening and assessment procedures used in JC throughout the United States.
METHOD: Ninety-four clinical staff members (one from each JC) completed a survey about the mental health screening and assessment procedures conducted at their facilities. We used descriptive statistics to obtain prevalence data about (a) who is screened and assessed, (b) frequency of screening and assessment, (c) methods used and areas screened and assessed, (d) qualifications of those conducting screenings and assessments, and (e) perceived adequacy of screening procedures.
RESULTS: Ninety-eight percent (n = 92) of participants reported that their facilities conducted suicide risk screenings, and 97% (n = 90) reported that mental health screenings were conducted at admission for all youth. Additionally, 59 (63%) respondents reported that all youth receive an extensive assessment of mental health concerns. However, only forty-six percent (n = 42) of the 92 participants responding indicated repeated screening of youth throughout their stay, and only 46% (n = 34) of the 74 participants responding indicated screening at discharge. Additionally, a variety of assessments were reportedly used and there was little consistency across JC.
CONCLUSION: The findings revealed a continued need for consistent policies and procedures across facilities regarding screening and assessment to address various screening and assessment issues and promote quality care. © 2016, Springer Science+Business Media New York.
Language: en |