Citation

Markowitz FE. Aggress. Violent Behav. 2011; 16(1): 36-44.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In this article, I review theory and research on the relationship between mental illness, crime, and violence. I begin by discussing the larger backdrop of deinstitutionalization of mental illness and its consequences for the criminal justice system in both individual and macro-level terms. I then compare public perceptions of dangerousness associated with mental illness with individual-level studies that assess the risk of violence and criminal behavior among those with mental illness. I review key findings as to the role of certain psychotic symptoms, social demographic characteristics, and the context in which violence unfolds. Finally, I discuss recent efforts at managing persons with mental illness who violate the law, focusing on the limitations of diversionary programs.