Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Paul Humphries

Advisor Role

Thesis Supervisor

Abstract

Human services and program evaluation literature suggests that correctional policy must be formulated in the context of an Empirical Penology that begins with the data of corrections (Conrad, 1973; Newman and Price, 1977; Law Reform Commission of Canada, 1976). The Ontario Ministry of Correctional Services is currently involved in policy discussions concerning the future provision of mental health service to its clients. As part of its discussions, a Ministry Task Force is examining mental health service delivery models. However, standardized descriptive data of the existing client target population and the current service are not available. Comprehensive service evaluation are also non-existent.

This study describes the Target Population of the 134 clients identified in need of mental health service in institutions and probation and parole offices in the Ontario Northern Region in a four-month period. The Total Target is presented as a composite of ten individual targets whose client profiles, mental health service and service evaluations are each unique along various dimensions.

The Results are discussed with a view to developing and implementing service delivery models by comparing the Combined Institution and Combined Probation and Parole Targets and by highlighting three of the ten individual targets. It is argued that the uniqueness of each individual target warrants follow-up local-level discussions with Ministry Administration to design and implement appropriate mental health service models based on the data and service evaluations presented in the study.

Convocation Year

1981

Included in

Psychology Commons

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