Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

James Brown

Abstract

In the United States, 40% of incarcerated individuals have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, but they often lack the support system needed to navigate their incarceration. This study addressed ways to understand how family engagement opportunities can improve the behavioral health of mentally ill offenders. Specifically, five research questions were used to explore the degree to which the practice of family engagement was understood as a method for providing support to mentally ill incarcerated individuals. The study followed the Baldrige Framework of Excellence to identify current organizational leadership and management issues that can help reach its goals, improve results, and become more competitive. Several forms of data were used for this analysis including an interview with the bureau chief of mental health. Other data sources included internal and external organizational websites, secondary sources, policies and procedures, and public sources. Organization X’s Road map, the executive budget, an annual report, and a range of other secondary sources were also reviewed. The results of this study revealed that family members, staff, and peer supporters had an active role during the family engagement process. The results also revealed that the organization continued building community partnerships for offenders who had medical and mental health needs and were returning to the community. The workforce continued improving the operational needs of Organization X. The organization must work on different strategies to recruit and sustain employees within the organization. Research could be used for positive change by administrators to improve the outcomes for offenders.

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