Client-centered care for individuals with dual diagnoses in the justice system

Abstract

1. The characteristics of people with developmental disabilities, such as poor judgment, low frustration tolerance, lack of impulse control, and naivete, compounded by the symptoms of a mental illness, contribute to their susceptibility to engage in problematic or criminal behaviors. 2. Nurses should recognize that conducting risk assessments for this population may take time and could involve modifying risk assessments to the individuals' abilities. 3. Providing appropriate care for this vulnerable population requires a long-term, interdisciplinary approach and quality community support services