Date of Conferral

9-25-2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Sandra Caramela-Miller

Abstract

The association between mental health court participation and a reduction in recidivism is well documented. The question of whether mental health courts meet their therapeutic goals has received little scholarly attention. Therapeutic outcomes for mental health court participants are not well understood. Quality-of-life changes are a therapeutic outcome for mental health court participants. The purpose of this study was to explore factors related to such changes. The conceptual framework was based on therapeutic jurisprudence and criminogenic risk theory as implemented through the risk-need responsivity model. Quality-of-life changes as experienced and reported by 13 mental health court participants were qualitatively examined through observation and archival data analysis using a phenomenological methodology. Twelve themes connected with quality-of-life changes experienced by program participants were revealed through thematic analysis, with priority given to sobriety and mental health stability. Agency appeared to be an important factor for participants during later phases of the program, after they had gained coping skills and engaged in treatment. The importance of community partnerships was apparent. Future research is needed on the relevance of procedural justice and social support perceptions to program outcomes. Examination of the impact on program outcomes from application of risk-need-responsivity principles in conjunction with therapeutic jurisprudence techniques is also recommended. Factors that promote treatment engagement will require explication. Information was discovered which indicates positive social change through a need for identification of elements supporting therapeutic and recidivism outcomes to inform effective program design.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

 
COinS