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The prevalence of mental disorder is significantly higher in criminal justice populations (e.g., jails) than in the general population.

A) True
B) False

User Abonet
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The statement that mental disorder prevalence is higher in criminal justice populations than in the general population is true, due to factors like the effects of incarceration and existing disparities within the criminal justice system.

Step-by-step explanation:

The prevalence of mental disorders is indeed significantly higher in criminal justice populations than in the general population, which makes the correct answer to the question A) True. There are various reasons for these disparities, including the effects of imprisonment itself on mental health, potential predispositions to mental health issues among those incarcerated, and the stress and trauma associated with the criminal justice system and incarceration experience. Incarceration rates in the United States have soared due to 'get tough on crime' policies, and the criminal justice system has faced criticism for how it handles offenders, particularly concerning rehabilitation and fairness. Moreover, the history of racism in the American criminal justice system has been a factor contributing to disparities in treatment and imprisonment.

User Kevin Teljeur
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