Juvenile Correctional Workers’ Perceptions of Suicide Risk Factors and Mental Health Issues of Incarcerated Juveniles

This study measured juvenile correctional officers’ knowledge & attitudes regarding suicide risk factors & mental health & substance abuse issues before & after a staff training on suicide prevention. 76 participants completed the training & demonstrated significant improvement in knowledge & attitudes toward mental health treatment of incarcerated youth. Findings suggest correctional staff are receptive to increasing their knowledge of critical mental health issues. Studies of the retention & implementation of this new knowledge over time & the optimal type & frequency of new staff training & continuing education are indicated. (15 refs.)