Transitional care for offenders with mental illness in jail: mapping indicators of successful community reentry.

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to clarify two issues: indicators of successful reentry for inmates with mental health needs, and the services areas of care that will help the participants remain in the community. The study used a concept mapping methodology with forty-one participantsfrom the mental health units in an urban adult detention center. The findings of this study support the premise that additional aspects of living exist as indicators of success aside from the institutional focus. From 104 statements generated by the inmate participants, thirteen clusters (serviceareas) were developed that describe a successful community reentry for offenders with mental illness. The findings' implications for mental health providers are explored. (Journal abstract)