Mental Illness and Criminal Behaviour

Mental Illness and Criminal Behaviour: Understanding the Complex Relationship

Mental illness and criminal behaviour have a complicated relationship. Studies suggest that anxious, depressed, or mentally challenged people are more likely to commit a crime.

In 2014 study found that only 7.5 percent of crimes were directly related to the symptoms of a mental illness

This shows that the mentally ill are more likely to be victims of violent crimes.

Defining Criminal Behaviour

Criminal behaviour encompasses a range of actions resulting in injury, destruction or death. Examples of these actions include:

• Assault
• Theft
• Sexual Violence

Several other psychotic issues lead to criminal behaviour. However, these issues are difficult to assess.

This is where the role of forensic psychologists becomes prominent. These experts analyse cognitive behaviours to identify the factors leading to criminal conduct. They not only pinpoint mental health problems but also disabuse the public of those issues.

Are Mentally Ill Culprits Still Considered Criminals?

Yes, mentally unstable individuals will be considered criminals even if they ended up committing a crime. The only difference is that their sentences can be reduced. This can happen if they are able to prove mental illness in court. And to prove, they will need an expert witness report.

A forensic psychology expert witness can uncover mental illness and criminal behaviour. This gives mentally struggling individuals a chance for a fair trial.

How Mental State Impacts Criminal Behaviour

Here’s a breakdown of how the impact of mental illness on behaviour:

Mental Illness and Criminal Behaviour

Below are the factors of mental illness and criminal behaviour:

Psychotic Disorders:

Schizophrenia and similar conditions can cause:

• Delusions
• Hallucinations

These may drive a person to commit crimes they would not otherwise consider. A person with a paranoid delusion might act violently to defend themselves.

Mood Disorders:

Severe depression or bipolar disorder can affect mental health and criminal behaviour. They may cause

• Impulsiveness
• reckless acts

In extreme cases, people with these disorders may commit crimes during manic or depressive episodes.

Personality Disorders:

Disorders like antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) are linked to crime. People with ASPD may lack:

• Empathy
• Disregard social norms

They may also be:

• Manipulative
• Aggressive

“When we hear about crimes committed by people with mental illness, they tend to be big headline-making crimes so they get stuck in people’s heads. The vast majority of people with mental illness are not violent, not criminal and not dangerous.”

Jillian Peterson, PhD

Cognitive Impairments and Criminal Behaviour

Intellectual Disabilities:

Those with intellectual disabilities

• They have poor judgement
• They are more easily influenced
• They may not take the consequences of their actions

These impairments can lead to criminal behaviour

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):

TBIs can change behaviour. They may cause:

• Aggressiveness
• Impulsivity
• Emotional control issues.

Substance Abuse and Criminal Behaviour

Substance-Induced Disorders:

Drugs or alcohol can change a person’s mind. This can impair:

• Judgement
• Increase aggression
• Lead to risky, criminal behaviour

Dual Diagnosis:

Those with both a mental illness and a substance use disorder may be more likely to commit crimes. The combined effects of both disorders can harm their mental state.

Diminished Capacity and Legal Implications

Insanity Defence:

In mental health court cases, if a defendant’s mind is too impaired, they may be found not criminally responsible under the law.

Competency to Stand Trial:

A person’s mind can affect their ability to understand legal proceedings. If a person is found incompetent to stand trial, they may be treated until deemed competent.

Impulsivity and Lack of Inhibition

Executive Functioning Deficits:

Mental illnesses, like ADHD, affect the brain’s executive functions. They can impair:

• Impulse control
• Planning
• Decision-making

Emotional Dysregulation:

Disorders like borderline personality disorder cause emotional instability. They can lead to criminal actions done in the heat of the moment.

Environmental and Social Factors

Stress and Trauma:

• Chronic stress
• Trauma
• Bad childhood

These factors can harm mental health and raise the risk of crime.

Social Isolation:

Mental illness can cause social withdrawal. This may increase crime. It could be due to joining criminal groups or a lack of support and coping skills.

Risk Assessment and Prevention

Early Intervention:

Treating mental health issues early can reduce crime. It addresses the causes and provides support and rehab.

Rehabilitation vs. Punishment:

For some, crimes come from mental issues. Rehabilitation may reduce repeat offences and aid recovery more than punishment.

Key Findings

These were some factors of mental illness and criminal behaviour Untangling the causes of criminal behaviour is extremely complex. It requires the assistance of experts who understand deviant behaviours. Our experts provide insights on mental illness legal implications.

Concise Medico has a panel of veteran forensic psychologists. They help you to get out of the mess with their expert opinion.

Our experts are qualified (HCPC-registered), verified, and vetted. They help you navigate through complex mental health and criminal behaviour