WK 5 REPLY NOTES

REPLY 5-1 NG (100 words and 1 reference)

An individual who is mandated to receive psychological services will act differently than an individual who voluntarily receives psychological services as they feel they have no control over their life at that point in time. Therefore, they may be prone to displaying noncompliant behaviors such as not following the rules, regulations or advice that is expected of them. “Court mandated treatments imply a dual role for therapy providers not only for caring for, but also of having control over, involuntary clients…aimed at reducing recidivism in offending behavior” (Hachtel & Huber, 2019, para. 1). Coercing the offenders into treatment may be the only option for the legal system because not everyone is willing to cooperate nor are they motivated to work with the criminal justice system. The intention behind the treatment is to help the offender. It also allows psychiatrist to better understand the criminal mind as they can use that data to impact future events. “While mandated therapy provides external motivation to attend treatment, voluntary clients are normally believed to be intrinsically motivated” (Hachtel & Huber, 2019, para. 3). 

According to Bontempi (2019) intrinsic motivation suggests the individual is inherently interested in the participating while extrinsic motivation suggests the individual is being forced to participate to avoid further punishment. As you can see there is a huge difference between the two terms. An individual who wants to be involved has a motive and is not concerned with the reward that comes from the activity. Consequently, an individual that has no motive to comply must have external reinforcement to comply with the ruling. When it comes to the different environments, those who are in the laxer environment do not feel pressured to learn and grow as have a sense of purpose. While those in the controlled environment will have a much more difficult time accepting the help and conforming to the program.

REPLY 5-1 CR (100 words 1 reference)

When someone is mandated to get psychological services, it can have an impact on how they feel about it in the beginning. It can also make it where they are more resilient to the treatment and may make it harder for the person trying to help them connect in the beginning. However, research has shown that this does not change the effectiveness of the treatment and they can still be treated as effectively as those that want treatment. According to Coviello et al. (2013), those that underwent drug rehabilitations were just as successful in getting treatment as those that were court ordered and there were some instances where they did better. According to Ryan and Deci (2000), the main difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation is that intrinsic motivation is based on the person wanting to do the activity for enjoyment. While extrinsic motivation is based on whether there is a reward at the end of the activity, they must participate in. When looking at a court ordered treatment this could be more of an extrinsic type of experience since this may be an alternative to jail time, or it gives them help they were not willing to get on their own. Which makes it where those that volunteer to get treatment have more of an intrinsic outlook on it since they are doing it because they want to get better.

REPLY 5-2 NG (100 words and 1 reference)

“Forensic psychologists are frequently called upon to conduct evaluations for competency to stand trial, insanity defense or prediction of future dangerousness” (Miller, 2013, pg. 83). Their role in the justice system is critical as they evaluate offenders who have committed criminal acts to better understand them as well as provide treatment services to them. It is imperative that offenders comply with the treatment programs that are put in place for them as it helps the psychiatrist conduct their duties. “Forensic psychological evaluations for criminal court are most likely to fall into the categories of: (1) competency to stand trial; (2) not guilty by reason of insanity; and (3) risk assessment, or prediction of dangerousness” (Miller, 2013, pg. 90). There are great challenges that stem from this as we discussed the willingness of the offenders in this week's first discussion post. The willingness of the offender will have an impact on how the psychiatrist conducts their duties. If the offender is cooperative, it is much easier for the psychiatrist to assess and treat them. “Forensic mental health professionals believe that community treatment…should focus on stabilization of the illness, enhancement of independent functioning and maintenance of internal and external controls the prevent patients from acting violently and committing their offenses” (Lamb et al., 1999, pg. 909). 

 “Psychological evaluations for the criminal court consist of several key components: (1) record review; (2) clinical interview and examination of the defendant; (3) interview of collaterals; (4) administration of special psychological tests and measures; and (5) preparation of a written report.” (Miller, 2013, pg. 90). The progress reports will not only show the progress of the offender it will also show if the psychiatrist is successful in their position as they have a huge role. The progress will be a direct reflection of the offender as they highlight the offenders’ psychological issues and needs. Successful completion of treatment will offer a chance of a successful reentry back into the civilian world.