Unit 2 Discussion

Increasingly, all correctional staff members are being trained in the area of mental illness, regardless of whether they have a clinical background or will be involved in the classification and assessment process. Many are being required to become certified in Mental Health First Aid or a similar program. Answer the following:

• Why is it important for correctional staff to have some knowledge of mental illness?
• What are your thoughts relating to housing mentally ill criminals in jails or prisons, rather than in treatment facilities?