보호관찰대상자의 정신건강 및 음주 관련 요인이 재범에 미치는 영향

초록

There is a high level of correlation between alcohol use and crime. Many studies have shown a relatively higher level of mental health problems including alcohol related problems among probationers. However, the issue have received little attention in Korea, and almost no mental health services are available for probationers. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between age of drinking onset, level of drinking, and mental health status and crime recidivism among probationers using path analysis. The study utilized data collected among probationers in 56 probation offices in Korea. Data from 431 probationers were used for the analysis. The results of the study were as follows: First, the age of onset and level of drinking were found to influence probationers’ recidivism. Earlier onset was associated with higher level of drinking, which influenced the number of recidivism. Second, earlier onset of drinking was associated with negative mental health status, which was related to a higher level of drinking. Third, the level of drinking was found to mediate the relationship between mental health status and crime recidivism. Implications of the findings point towards the need to develop appropriate mental health services for probationers. Probation system needs to develop the service delivery system that includes adequate intervention as well as referrals to mental health services including services for substance abuse problems.

키워드