The Psychological Pathways From Mental Illness To Crime And How The Law In India Treats It

Anoupama P
DOI:

Abstract

The 1946 Bhore Committee report provided that Health and well-being are a combination of mental and physical health. However, 79 years later, India still grapples with untreated mental ill-health with a recognised treatment gap of 82 – 92%. Apart from this, the NCRB data further shows a rise in suicides, especially among students and adolescents. Data further shows that mental illness can contribute to crime if left untreated for a long time or if it combines with other disorders like Substance Use Disorders (SUD). Thus, the purpose of this research is to analyse how untreated mental illness can contribute to crime and what further steps can be taken to overcome these treatment gaps. In order to explore this purpose, a combination of qualitative, analytical, and exploratory research was undertaken, and thorough analysis of psychological theories, existing legal framework, Supreme Court and High Court precedents and books of criminal psychology was undertaken. The research has brought to light the existing implementation gaps and lack of adequate facilities and funds for mental healthcare in India. Further, the research has shown the stigma surrounding mental health and the lack of awareness among the general public about mental ill-health and treatment facilities. This paper proposes an interdisciplinary research and study that combines law with mental health, as suggested by the American Psychological Association (APA), for better implementation of the existing framework and improvements in policies and facilities. Further research can focus on the eradication of public stigma and a detailed comparative analysis of India’s mental health law with that of other countries in order to implement similar models.

Keywords

Mental illness, crime, India, stigma, facilities