How stigma is a barrier for people with mental illness transitioning from forensic or correctional institutions into the community : a systematic review

Abstract

People face a multitude of barriers when attempting to transition to the community from correctional or forensic institutions, including symptom management, substance abuse, and weak social ties. However, labeling and stigma processes has not been conceptualized as a barrier to successful transition in and of itself. A systematic review was conducted to collect and synthesize the effects of these processes. Seven articles were identified as relevant and labeling and stigma processes was found to negatively affect two key determinants of transition success: 1) access to care and community resources, and 2) completing identity work necessary for moral and social community inclusion. Findings also suggest that stigma affects transition success indirectly and is mediated through variables such as anticipated stigma. As identified in the literature and confirmed through the systematic review, researchers and policy must be clear and explicit in their operationalization of transition terminology.