Assessing the Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Cognitive Functioning, and Social/Emotional Well-Being Needs of Aboriginal Prisoners in Australia. (October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ogloff, James R. P.; Pfeifer, Jeffrey E.; Shepherd, Stephane M.; Ciorciari, Joseph
• Is Part Of: Journal of correctional health care. Volume 23:Number 4(2017)
• Page Start: 398
• Page End: 411
• Publication Date: 2017-10
• Subjects: Aboriginal -- mental health -- cognitive impairment -- social well-being -- emotional well-being -- prisoner health; Prisoners -- Health and hygiene -- United States -- Periodicals; Prisoners -- Medical care -- United States -- Periodicals; 365.667
• DOI: 10.1177/1078345817723345
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1078-3458

Abstract

This study sought to identify the incidence of mental illness, substance misuse, and cognitive impairment among a representative cohort of 123 Aboriginal people in custody in Australia. In addition, the study measured levels of social and emotional well-being (SEWB) and considered the interrelationship of mental health issues, SEWB, and unmet needs. Both male and female Aboriginal prisoners were found to have high rates of mental health, substance abuse, and cognitive functioning needs that were heavily contextualized within perceptions of their own SEWB. Findings provide important information with regard to the specific needs of Aboriginal people in custody. Implications for the development and implementation of effective, culturally themed best practice programming for this population are discussed.