Mental Health Assessment of South Korean Adults on Probation

Objective The association of offender mental illness (including those on probation) with crime has long been the subject of social interest; however, systematic management has been insufficient. The study purpose was to analyze mental illness prevalence, proportion of first offenses and recidivism with the mental illness of those on probation. Methods A total of 206 adults on probation were divided into groups (first offenders and repeat offenders) and they completed self-report instruments and clinical interviews designed to diagnose mental illness. Results The mental illness prevalence among those on probation was considerably higher than that of the general population, and having mental illness was related to re-sentencing probation or recidivism. In particular, alcohol use disorder, major depressive episode, manic/hypomanic episode, and antisocial personality disorder were shown to affect recidivism. Conclusion To achieve the ultimate purpose of probation, social and systematic intervention on a mental health and medical basis may be required.