title: A survey of practice at a regional forensic service: what do forensic psychiatrists do? Part I: Characteristics of cases and distribution of work.
abstract: During a six-month period, 306 psychiatric assessments were recorded prospectively on specifically designed schedules. There was a skewed distribution towards younger patients, and 78% were male. Just over half were seen for a court report, one-third of cases came from solicitors, and in two-thirds the request was merely for advice. Secure care was only sought in 15%. In nearly two-thirds an offence had precipitated the referral. Half were seen in prison. The majority had a history of dangerous behaviour and one-fifth were regarded as a sexual risk to others. Only one-third had not previously seen a psychiatrist. A personality disorder was diagnosed in 41%, but only 6% were considered to be psychopaths. These and other findings are discussed to help give an insight into the service.
authors.affiliation: Knowle Hospital, Fareham, Hampshire.
authors.forename: E F
authors.initials: EF
authors.lastname: Mendelson
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003617:Dangerous Behavior; D005260:Female; D005555:Forensic Psychiatry; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D008605:Mental Health Services; D008875:Middle Aged; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012737:Sex Factors