Mental illness and crime

Why are some people more likely to be the victim of violence and aggression? And why are some people more likely to be aggressive? Starting with experiences of bullying in childhood, this talk focuses on the nature and nurture of victimization and perpetration. From our parents to our neighbourhoods, there are factors in our environments that can increase or decrease our chances of experiencing or perpetrating violence. Importantly, this talk will explore how we can use this research to both prevent violence and better support young people who have experienced it.

What is the link between mental illness and crime? Who is admitted to secure psychiatric hospitals and what happens to them when they get there? This talk focuses on our understanding of the complex relationship between psychiatric illness, substance misuse, intellectual disability and aggressive behaviour. It will also consider the history, present and future of treatment for people with mental illness who offend.