Mental Illness and Public Safety

Do individuals with mental illness belong in jail? Yes.

However, this topic requires careful consideration. The American Psychiatric Association recognizes 450 distinct mental disorders, many of which have been extensively studied. One critical finding is that most individuals with mental illness have a clear understanding of right and wrong. Furthermore, the vast majority of mental health conditions do not predispose individuals to violence. Even diagnosed psychopaths—who lack empathy—fully comprehend the distinction between lawful and unlawful behavior; they simply do not care.

Statistically, the most significant predictors of violent behavior are youth, male gender, and socioeconomic hardship. When combined with alcohol or substance abuse, the likelihood of violent crime increases dramatically. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, nearly 50% of violent crimes involve alcohol consumption as a contributing factor.

Mental illness does not negate criminal culpability. While addressing mental health is crucial, it is dangerous to assume that a crime stems from mental illness simply because it was particularly heinous. The notion that a disordered mind must be responsible for violent or immoral acts is both misleading and unsupported by research. Cruel, illegal, or immoral behavior is not inherently a product of mental illness. Misattributing such actions to mental disorders perpetuates harmful stigma, further discouraging individuals from seeking the treatment they need.

Early childhood experiences play a significant role in shaping future behavior. Children who lack a stable, loving, and structured environment often struggle to develop properly. Both boys and girls benefit greatly from having a strong male or female role model to help shape their sense of self and understanding of societal roles. This is not to say that single mothers cannot provide excellent upbringing—many children thrive in single-parent households. However, exposure to a positive role model of the opposite sex, whether through a coach, teacher, or grandparent, can significantly enhance a child’s chances of leading a well-rounded and fulfilling life. Without a sense of safety and routine, their “fight or flight” response remains constantly activated, leaving them in a persistent state of anxiety. While systems exist to remove children from abusive homes, placement in foster care is not always a solution. Alarmingly, 80% of federal prisoners report having spent time in foster care. If foster care is nothing more than a soft pipeline to prison, we have failed our children on an incomprehensible level.

If we want to reduce crime, violence, and societal dysfunction, we must prioritize raising children in safe, stable environments. This is the single most effective step we can take toward fostering a more peaceful and prosperous society.