Author Description

Identifying entering inmates¿ mental health needs when they first enter an institution is critical to providing necessary services and enhancing safety in corrections settings. The purpose of the two projects discussed in this report was to create and validate mental health screening instruments corrections staff can use during intake. The researchers created short questionnaires that accurately identify inmates who require mental health interventions. One mental health screen was found to be effective for men and is being adapted for women; the other has effective versions for both men and women. This report was written for corrections administrators and mental health professionals. Includes forms.