Course Number and Title:
CRJ 227 Mental Health and Criminal Justice
Prerequisites
CRJ 118 and CRJ 220 and CRJ 231 and CRJ 226 and SOC 111
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
3 lecture hours/week
0 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course explores the complex relationship between mental health and the criminal justice system, focusing on how mental illness impacts both offenders and the justice system. This course explores the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and mental health disorders with a focus on interventions, diversion programs, and rehabilitation strategies.
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
- Discuss the components of mental health and mental health disorders. (CCC 1, 3; PGC 4)
- Examine how mental health issues are addressed within the criminal justice system. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
- Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health diversion programs and alternatives to incarceration. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
- Examine ethical and legal responsibilities of criminal justice professionals working with individuals with mental illnesses. (CCC 1, 4; PGC 1, 5)
- Critically assess current mental health policies and practices in the criminal justice system. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Discuss the components of mental health and mental health disorders.
- Identify the major components of mental health, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural perspectives.
- Distinguish between major mental health disorders as defined in the DSM.
- Examine how mental health issues are addressed within the criminal justice system.
- Explain the role of the criminal justice system.
- Identify possible mental health issues within the criminal justice system.
- Examine how various criminal justice professionals work with individuals with mental health issues.
- Explain how interviewing, counseling, and crisis intervention techniques are used with individuals with mental health issues.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health diversion programs and alternatives to incarceration
- Define mental health diversion programs and incarceration alternatives.
- Identify mental health diversion programs and incarceration alternatives in the adult setting vs. the juvenile justice system.
- Compare and contrast various diversion programs and incarceration alternatives.
- Examine the ethical and legal responsibilities of criminal justice professionals working with individuals with mental illnesses.
- Define ethical and legal responsibilities in criminal justice professions.
- Explain the ethical principles involved in mental health care.
- Examine the legal components involved in mental health care.
- Analyze ethical and legal behavior in mental health care.
- Critically assess current mental health policies and practices in the criminal justice system.
- Identify current mental health policies and practices in the criminal justice system.
- Compare and contrast mental health policies and practices.
- Analyze and assess the various mental health policies and practices.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
Evaluation Measure | Grade |
Summative Assessments |
Exams (3) (equally weighted) | 50% |
Comprehensive Clinical Research Presentation | 10% |
Formative Assessments |
The course will contain various formative assessments including but not limited to: Quizzes Assignments Role Plays Discussion Boards | 40% |
TOTAL | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
- Demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, and homeland security.
- Analyze causes of adult and juvenile crime.
- Explain the importance of professionalism, ethics, and critical thinking skills in the field of criminal justice.
- Apply skills needed in investigation, report writing, and crisis intervention.
- Demonstrate communication skills appropriate to criminal justice, including cultural competence and trauma-informed care.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.