From The Editor Editor & Publisher Jacques Beauchamp former regional police officer Executive Assistant Christine Panasuk Assistant Editor
Well, this is a very exciting time for us and for our readers! We are delighted to ring in the New Year by moving ahead and reaching out to the people who believe in what we are doing.
Joyce Li Circulation / Production Joyce Li Production Co Ordinator Jonathan Beauchamp Graphics & Art www.DESIGNit.CA
One of our biggest supporters is Safe City Mississauga. This extraordinary organization has worked tirelessly to provide programs, services, and information to contribute to the reduction of crime in Mississauga (pg. 14). One of Safe City Mississauga’s recent successes is its first annual Crime Prevention Conference. I was so thrilled to learn about this event that I had to ensure Crimesense Magazine would be a part of it. This past fall, we had the pleasure of being the conference’s Media Sponsor, and I had the privilege to speak in front of an eager group of individuals who wanted to make a change. Be sure to read all about the 2010 Crime Prevention Conference in this issue (pg. 36).
Printed in Ontario, Canada
This issue marks the second edition of Crimesense Magazine. Our goal is to provide you with even more vital information to read and pass on to your community. We all get caught up with the challenges of everyday life — like taking care of our homes, business, and most importantly, our families. We sometimes forget to take a look around us and realize what is going on and what really is happening.
Dollco Printing Columnists Alison Weir Canadian Paediatric Society (First Nations, Inuit & Métis Health Committee 2010) Ashley Lyons Dax Urbszat
The purpose of this magazine is to provide you with information that matters. We promote community awareness and try to help you understand that crime prevention does impact everyone; meaning you and your neighbours, and your colleagues at work.
Teresa Burgess-Ogilvie Steve Hall & Gordon Mack Scott Kismet Baun Latricia Wilson Lena Demarco
We all know that knowledge is the key to overcome any problem. With every magazine that we publish, my hope is that you are able to take away at least one piece of valuable information to help you and your family. I strongly encourage you to share what you have learned with others; including community organizations, schools, and colleges. If knowledge is power, then empower those around you!
Account Executives Donn Holt Thomas Easton Dan Cole Ryan Bérubé Crimesense is Published by Vantage Publishing Group Corp. and distributed free, all rights reserved. Contents and photographs may not be reprinted without written permission. The statements, opinions and pointts of view expressed in articles published in this magazine are those of the authors and publication shall not be deemed to mean they are necessarily those of Vantage Publishing Group Corp. or other affiliated organizations. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited
I challenge you to pick one article from this issue and share the facts with as many people as you can. You’ll be surprised to learn that the majority of the people that you’ve shared with don’t already know the facts. That’s why we need your help to spread the word. The truth of the matter is that crime prevention is everyone’s responsibility! Let your sixth sense be awareness.
manuscripts, photographs, transparencies or other materials.
SAY
Publications Mail Agreement No. 41927547 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to 174 Colonnade Road South, Suite 33 Ottawa, Ontario K2E 7J5
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Jacques Beauchamp Editor-in-Chief
HELLO
Share your suggestions or comments with Jacques by sending him an email at:
jacques@vantagepublishing.ca
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In This Issue 2010 CRIME PREVENTION CONFERENCE
14 2010 Hero Awards
meet the winners
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MENTAL HEALTH
The Media’s Roll
in shaping attitudes towards mental health
36 Harnessing the Evidence Harnessing what works 3 a post report on the 2010 crime prevention conference
26 Youth, Crime, and Mental Health
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causes, links, and solutions
52 Teenage Suicide
is your teen at risk of suicide because of bullying
19 Safe City Mississauga programs
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE
YOUTH AWARENESS
08 Crime Rates
why they don’t measure public safety
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Crime Stoppers
secondary school program
04 Inhalant Abuse
what parents should know
Bill 168
work place violence
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What is inhalant abuse?
Inhalant or solvent abuse is when someone intentionally breathes in or sniffs common toxic substances (chemicals) to get a high. It is also called huffing and bagging. Compared with other kinds of drug abuse, inhalant abuse sometimes affects younger children because the products are common, legal, cheap and easy to find.
What are some examples of inhalants?
The most commonly used substances are: gasoline, paint, propane/butane, air fresheners, and formalin (found in disinfectants).
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There is no way to predict how How are inhalants abused? of the common terms for inhalant abuse refer much of an inhalant will kill Some to the way or the type of products that are used: a person. Someone could use a • Sniffing: directly inhaling the fumes through the nose. certain amount one time and • Snorting: through the mouth. Bagging: from a plastic or paper bag. seem fine, but the next use • • Huffing: from a rag or cloth soaked in the could cause death. substance and held over the mouth or nose. • Glading: inhaling air-freshener aerosols. • Dusting: directly spraying aerosols into the nose or mouth.
Commonly Abused Inhalants
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What happens when someone uses an inhalant?
When a person uses an inhalant, large amounts of toxic chemicals enter the lungs. These chemicals pass from the bloodstream into the brain where they can damage and kill brain cells. Inhalants can kill, even the first time someone uses them. A person can stop breathing because of lack of oxygen or suffocate, especially if using a plastic bag. Inhalants can cause the heart to beat very fast and irregularly and then suddenly stop beating (cardiac arrest). There is no way to predict how much of an inhalant will kill a person. Someone could use a certain amount one time and seem fine, but the next use could cause death. The effects of inhalants usually last only a few minutes, unless a person keeps inhaling over and over. At first, inhalants have a stimulating effect. A person may feel dazed, dizzy and have trouble walking. Inhaling can cause headaches, nausea and vomiting. Users can be moody and aggressive or think that they see things that are not there. Stronger chemicals or repeated inhaling can cause people to pass out. Over time, inhalants can cause serious and permanent damage to vital organs like the brain, kidneys, heart and liver. Inhalants exit the body mainly through exhaling. Someone who is using inhalants often has breath that smells like chemicals. Inhalants also pass out of the body through urine. It can take as long as two weeks for the body to get rid of all the chemicals.
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What can parents do? • • • •
Know which products can be dangerous. Know the slang words used to describe inhaling. Know the warning signs and behaviours to watch for. Be open and talk to your children about danger of inhalants.
If you think your child or teen is using inhalants, talk to a health professional.
For more information on inhalant abuse contact:
• Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (www.camh.net) • Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (www.ccsa.ca) • Health Canada, First Nations, Inuit and Aboriginal Health Branch; National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program (www.hc-sc.gc.ca) • Your local poison control office Developed by the CPS First Nations, Inuit and Métis Health Committee For more information: Inhalant Abuse, a statement of the Canadian Paediatric Society. (www.cps.ca) Updated: September 2010 This information should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your physician. There may be variations in treatment that your physician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances. Source: Canadian Paediatric Society, First Nations, Inuit and Métis Health Committee, 2010. For more information, please visit www.caringforkids.ca © 2010 Canadian Paediatric Society. All Rights Reserved.
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My newspaper likes to print bold headlines about crime. Last summer, I happily read articles titled Crime Rate Continues to Drop, Canada’s Crime Severity Declines, and Crime Rate Has Sunk 22% Since 1999. These stories made me feel safe, and proud to be Canadian. But I wondered about the data behind the stories.
Statistics Canada does an excellent job of questioning legal professionals. Every year, they survey all 208 police jurisdictions in order to generate crime rate and crime severity statistics. Statistics Canada does a good job of questioning crime victims. Every five or six years, about 25,000 randomly selected Canadians over the age of 15 are surveyed by telephone. They are asked about a broad range of topics. One of the topics is about the extent, nature, impact, and consequences of their crime victimization. crimesense
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about one-third of all crimes committed are not brought to the attention of the police.
There are three groups of people involved in crime: criminals, victims, and legal professionals. If we could get the right information from all three groups and merge it appropriately, then we could get an accurate picture of crime in Canada. But, we can’t get the right information. Although we can question victims and legal professionals, it’s impossible to question active criminals. We can’t identify all active criminals; we can only identify those that have been convicted of an offense. Even if we could identify active criminals, it’s not likely that their information would be reliable.
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Unfortunately Statistics Canada does not merge the information in these two surveys. When the information is merged a shocking statistic results – about onethird of all crimes committed are not brought to the attention of the police. My newspaper headlines were about crime rates and crime severity indices, as reported by the police. My newspaper headlines didn’t contain anything about the one-third of all crimes that didn’t make it to the police. Crime rates are the most commonly used measure of overall crime activity. Most people think that a low local crime rate indicates a safe community, and a high local crime rate indicates an unsafe community. Crime rates are calculated by taking the number of criminal incidents that the police consider closed, dividing it by the population size, and then multiplying the result by 1,000. Crime rates don’t differentiate between serious and less serious crimes. An act of mischief carries the same weight as a homicide. Crime rates are high if there is a high volume of less serious crimes. Canadian crime rates do not include criminal traffic offences or drug offences.
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Crime rates don’t differentiate between serious and less serious crimes. Crime severity indices (CSIs) were introduced in Canada in 2007. Even though they are a recent innovation, we have the data to calculate them for previous years. The idea behind a CSI is simple; it’s a crime rate that differentiates between serious and less serious crimes. To calculate a CSI we need a weight for every crime. We want serious crimes to be important, so we need them to have large weights. We want smaller weights for less serious crimes. The weights adopted are the product of two numbers: the percent of those convicted who receive jail time and the average jail time for those who get it. The weights make sense, since almost every criminal gets a lot of jail time for a serious crime. The weights are held constant for five years, then they are recalculated using court sentencing data for the previous five years. Since the weights change every five years, the index is scaled so that 2006 values are 100 (this is similar to the scaling in the Consumer Price Index). CSIs include criminal traffic offences and drug offences.
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CSIs are calculated by first multiplying each crime by its weight, then summing all of these products, then dividing the total by the population size, and finally scaling the result so that 2006 values equal 100. Victimization rates tell us how many people are victims of crime. If all crimes are reported to the police, then the crime rate and the victimization rate should be almost equal. They won’t be exactly equal since some crimes, like a double homicide has two victims, whereas other crimes, like cannabis possession, have no victims. But if a lot of crimes are not reported to the police, the crime rate will be noticeably smaller than the victimization rate. Victimization rates are calculated by taking the number of people who report being victims of crime, dividing it by the sample size, doing a bit of statistical magic, and finally multiplying the result by 1,000. Victimization rates don’t differentiate between serious and less serious crimes. Victimization rates are calculated for an aggregate of all violent offences. They are also calculated for individual violent crimes such as theft of personal property. The majority of victims, who didn’t report to the police, said they thought their crime wasn’t serious enough to report. Statistics Canada calculates crime rates, victimization rates, and CSIs nationally, provincially, and for metropolitan areas. Let’s have a look at the three indices, split by province, for 2009. This gives us a snapshot of Canadian crime in 2009, but I don’t think it’s a particularly good snapshot. There could be big changes to the pictures if we could find out about the one-third of all crimes that are not reported to the police. Figure 4 shows the combination of victimization rate and crime rate. Each dot represents data for one province. Notice how the dots are scattered about the straight line. This line tells us that in 2009 provincial crime rates were about 62% of victimization rates. It looks like 38% (or a little bit less since some crimes have more than one victim) of crimes were not reported to the police. About onethird of all committed crimes were not reported to the police.
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Figure 1 National Crime Rates Overall, the total crime rate has decreased from 1998 to 2009. The violent crime rate has remained virtually constant since 2000.
Figure 2 National Crime Severity Indices Total CSI has decreased from 1998 to 2009. Violent CSI has remained fairly constant.
Figure 3 National Victimization Rates Violent victimization rates have remained fairly constant from 1999 to 2009. Theft of personal property has increased from 1999 to 2009.
Figure 4 Provincial Crime Rates and Victimization Rates 2009 There is a positive linear relationship between these two indicators of crime incidence.
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Table 1 2009 Crime Indices Table 1 contains a lot of numbers. It’s probably best to summarize these numbers graphically. Have a look at Figures 5, 6, and 7. Some interesting conclusions can be made when we combine the information in Figures 5, 6, and 7, with the numbers in Table 1. The most obvious conclusion is that crime incidence and victimization is worse in Western Canada than it is in the rest of the country. Figures 5 and 6 show that Ontario’s and Quebec’s crime character is not the same as the rest of Canada – they have a higher proportion of violent crime. Figures 6 and 7 show that Manitoba’s, New Brunswick’s and Ontario’s victimization rates are not in character is not the same as the rest of Canada – they have a higher proportion of nonreported crime. Let’s come back to my newspaper headlines. Those headlines made me feel safe. They summarized crime rates and crime severity indices, and at first glance these numbers tell me how safe I should feel. But further investigation taught me that crime rates and crime severity indices can’t include the huge number of “dark crimes” that are not reported to the police. Now I know that we can’t measure safety using policereported statistics, we simply don’t have the data to do it. I don’t know what types of crime go unreported in my neighbourhood, I don’t know if I still feel safe.
Total CSI 2009
Figure 5 Total CSI 2009 Observe higher levels of violent crime in the west, particularly high in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Total Crime Rate 2009
Figure 6 Total Crime Rate 2009 Higher crime rates in the west. Lowest total crime rates in Ontario and Quebec. Victimization Rate 2009
Figure 7 Victimization Rate 2009 Higher victimization rates in the west, with the exception of New Brunswick.
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Secondary School Program They don’t lurk in the dark with magnifying glasses, but despite their nonchalant appearances, they are some of the best eyes in the business. Found walking down the halls around the world, they are students, and most don’t even know their potential as sleuths. The Safe School Crime Stoppers Program is thriving throughout the Province of Ontario. In 1993, Peel Crime Stoppers established the first Safe School Crime Stoppers Program at Notre Dame Secondary School in Brampton. Since that time, hundreds of schools across the Province have followed Peel’s lead in establishing this very effective program. It subscribes to both a re-active and pro-active approach to promoting a safer school environment.
How Does The Program Work? This program allows students to provide anonymous tips about crimes in the school via phone or web. The students are eligible to receive a monetary reward if the tip proves instrumental in solving the crime. The Safe School Crime Stoppers Program promotes school spirit, pride and responsibility and allows students to take action against victimization and crime. This popular program is mostly found in high schools, though elementary, junior high and university age students are now becoming increasingly familiar with the concept. The success of the program often depends directly upon the support of the school administration. The more encouragement and direction the administration gives the students, the more successful the program is likely to be. How does it start? Currently, Peel Police Neighborhood Police Unit Officers are attending Secondary Schools to inform respective school representatives about the awareness program. The respective school can then utilize the parts of the program they would like to focus on. A core part of the program is presentations to grade 9 students which outline the Peel Crime Stoppers Program. The presentation is crucial to the success of the program as vital information is given to the students at that time. One of the reasons that students are reluctant to call or leave a web tip, is they are not convinced the program is confidential. In the presentation they are made aware that their name is not taken and their phone number is not recorded and they will never have to testify in court. These presentations in the past have been proven to encourage students to anonymously contact Crime Stoppers about criminal activity in their schools. Each school is encouraged to tailor the program to meet its specific needs. Logos, mottoes, flyers, by-laws and other aspects of the program may be structured to fit each school. In schools where students are involved the students are challenged to be creative in developing the program ie: public service announcements in the schools, posters, awareness campaigns, fundraising sports events etc. The only limits to the success of the program are those placed on it by, the students and the administrators. What happens with the Tips? The tips are received by the Peel Crime Stoppers Program Co-coordinator and the tipster receives a confidential number in which they can call back in 90 days to receive the results of their tip and possibly receive a cash reward for the information. The tip is forwarded to an investigator and that could possibly be to the Neighborhood Police Unit officer for that particular school. In the past, Crime Stoppers Tips have significantly assisted the officer in being effective at their school. The program has resulted in reducing criminal activity that students reported therefore providing a safer atmosphere for students to learn in. CS How to get involved? Contact Cst. Tony Bayley, Peel Crime Stoppers Program 905-453-3311 Ext 4878
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The HERO Awards are a community event that acknowledges the simple fact that not all heroes wear spandex or have secret identities. Oftentimes those who make the biggest difference to our neighbourhoods are the people we share our lives with on a regular basis, be they youth, officers, educators, or business members. The truth of the matter is that crime prevention is everyone’s responsibility, and on Saturday September 11th 2010, at the 1st Annual Community Crime Prevention Conference Safe City Mississauga proudly gathered to honour those whose efforts are particularly notable. Sponsored by Bell, the Hero Awards were presented by Lena Demarco, Regional Director for Bell.
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Haz-Mat
Advertorial Feature
after the crime
W
hen it comes to crime, prevention is usually the first and foremost concern in every community however; even with the best prevention efforts the reality is that communities continue to feel the impact of crime on a daily basis.
When the Fire department, Police officials and Paramedics respond to a crime or trauma incident they arrive to perform crucial and necessary tasks. It’s a common misconception that when emergency personnel leave the scene of a crime, they take any and all traces of the occurrence with them and return a property to its rightful owner, free from any potential hazards or physical reminders of the event. This, unfortunately is not the case.
The harsh reality is that when key emergency response professionals conclude their work, and the site is returned to the property owner, it is the owner’s responsibility to clean up any of the chemical agents used in the investigation; such as finger print dust, etc. left on walls and other surfaces as well as any blood, bodily fluids or other matter that may be present at the scene. Not only is this a daunting and psychologically burdening task for property owners, it can also be dangerous and carry legal implications. Exposure to biohazardous contaminants and chemical toxins can pose serious and long lasting health risks and the disposal of hazardous or infectious waste material must be done according to strict government regulations. Canadian Hazmat & Decon Services Inc (CHDS), an industry leader in Crime & Trauma scene mitigation and Hazardous material spill response provides compassionate, experienced and professional services to property owners facing such unfortunate and difficult circumstances. The firm is committed to recommending and performing only those tasks that are reasonable, necessary and appropriate to return an affected property to a pre-incident state in a safe, timely and economically responsible manner. Armed with fifty plus years of experience in emergency response, crisis mitigation, hazardous materials remediation, waste management, and full property restoration, the CHDS team responds quickly
and efficiently to eliminate all hazards that may be present at the scene of a home or business invasion, a homicide, suicide, accidental death, unattended death, assault, injury or accident, clandestine drug lab, or chemical release. CS For responsible management and cost effective solutions you can count on, call CHDS General Inquiries 905-336-3822 24 hour Emergency Response 1-866-856-5366 www.chds.ca CHDS Inc, maintains a Certificate of Approval (C of A) as issued by the Ministry of the Environment (M.O.E), maintains all required qualifications and certifications in Hazardous Materials Response & Occupational Health & Safety
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW C by: Ashley Lyons
rime prevention and public safety programmes can take many forms, from reducing opportunities for crime through improving the environment and ensuring better urban planning, to early intervention and social and 19 community development. The quality of life within a municipality depends to a large extent on the possibility that individuals and their families will be safe. Traditionally, the police and the criminal justice system have been responsible for ensuring public safety and preventing crime. While they continue to have a key role to play and specific responsibilities to carry out, public safety is everyone’s concern and citizens need to contribute to the development of a safe and cohesive living environment.
Developing a strategy on crime prevention and safety must have a shared understanding of the necessity and feasibility of working together to combat crime and insecurities. Implementing a safety strategy requires the presence and cooperation of many different partners. Experience shows that viable results will be achieved only if all the dynamic forces within a community are mobilized and work together to create safer communities. To support the mission and vision of Safe City Mississauga our programming provides safety and crime prevention education and information to the public while actively seeking public participation and support for safety and crime prevention initiatives.
Neighbourhood Watch VISION: Neighbourhood Watch will create a safe living environment Crime presents one of the most important challenges for municipalities across Canada. It affects the quality of life of our communities, the attractiveness and economic competitiveness of towns and cities, as well as the sense of social cohesion and community spirit in neighbourhoods. Canadians perceptions of crime in their community can be shaped by a number of factors, including their own personal and household victimization; experiences of those close to them; and media reports of criminal incidents. These views were measured in c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
the 2004 General Social Survey with questions on the perceived level of crime in the respondent’s neighbourhood. While the vast majority of Canadians are satisfied with their personal safety from crime (94%), many take precautions to protect themselves from becoming a victim of crime. According to a survey of 3,000 Canadians, 88% placed being able to live in a safe and secure environment among the nine most important issues in the country. Recognizing the importance of neighbourhoods is not a new strategic approach to community development. The place-based approach is founded on evidence that neighbourhoods matter to both the well-being of individuals and to the prosperity of the broader community. Such a strategy can include the development of better community policing, and improved environmental safety. An integrated approach to security and community safety generates a better understanding of the causes and risk factors which generate crime and victimization, and cause insecurity, and can include improving the quality of life in neighbourhoods. As residents, we must make sure that our City is more than just a collection of buildings; whether we rent or own, it is our home. A community is only as strong as its spirit. If crime is one of the main obstacles to improving the quality of life in a respective area, then responsibility must be taken for local safety. This will help to build the confidence of the citizens in the community, and ensure that their quality of life and right to live in peace and security are protected. crimesense
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The Neighbourhood Watch program started in Detroit, Michigan around 1970 and spread to Canada on a large scale in 1982. With no central body governing the program, it became obvious that nation-wide cooperation was needed. The General Accident Assurance Company of Canada undertook funding, and along with them other key groups became involved. Working in partnership with the Solicitor General and the Attorney General promotional and educational materials were developed for Cities who supported the Neighbourhood Watch program. Safe City Mississauga has been the leading organization supporting the Neighbourhood Watch program in Mississauga since our inception in 1992. It is managed by the Programs Manager, delivered by the Programs Coordinator and is supported through a network of partnerships. There are currently 48 active Neighbourhood Watches within the City of Mississauga, which encompass approximately 4,500 homes. This self-help program is designed to empower neighbours and neighbourhoods to take an active role in protecting one another’s home and property from criminal activity. Along with the shared responsibility of protecting one another, this program facilitates stronger & healthier friendships in order to build safer neighbourhoods; knowing one’s neighbour makes it very simple to identify any strangers or potential problems. All participants share the same concern and that is the safety and security of all in the community. Neighbourhood Watch is specifically targeted to help reduce neighbourhood crimes such as break and enters, theft of auto, theft from auto, and property damage. There are also many social and economical advantages to the Neighbourhood Watch program. This program is offered free of charge to any willing neighbourhood residing in the City of Mississauga. Active Watch areas generally see a decrease in crime in their area, which can be as a result of vigilance and discretion, and the simple existence of a Neighbourhood Watch can be a deterrent to any burglars and vandals. In an effort to support the concept of the Neighbourhood Watch program, Neighbours Night Out was created. This unique city-wide community event supports the concept of a safer community by encouraging neighbours across the City of Mississauga to come together by hosting crimesense
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a neighbourhood event. Neighbours Night Out, is a yearlong community building campaign, designed to heighten crime prevention awareness, generate support for, and participation in local crime prevention and public safety programs, strengthen neighbourhood spirit and Police-community partnerships, and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighbourhoods are organized and fighting back. This event has been held throughout North America for over twentyfive years, with Safe City Mississauga’s annual Neighbours Night Out takes place on the third Tuesday in June.
Crossroads Youth Academy VISION: Crossroads Youth Academy will create a safe school environment Developed in 2003 from a desire to involve and interest youth in crime prevention, and personal safety this program is based on a network of partnerships that rallies a diverse group of community stakeholders into a single, cohesive crime prevention and safety team that directly delivers customized, crime prevention and safety training to high school youth within Mississauga. Since 2003, the Crossroads Youth Academy has delivered crime prevention through social development activities targeted at Secondary School aged youth. Internationally recognized as the winner of the 2005 Best Community Crime Prevention
“The program allows us to develop counterfeit detection skills in young people who are entering the workforce for the first time. These students gain knowledge and skills that will benefit themselves, their families and the community for many years to come” - Jodie Sales (Bank of Canada Presenter)
Program, the Crossroads Youth Academy motivates and empowers youth to avoid criminal activities, become informed about being a good citizen and provides them the knowledge to make healthy decisions when they find themselves at one of life’s Crossroads. Delivered in two Phases, the Academy Phase is designed to equip participants
with the knowledge and skills to stay safe and avoid victimization. Over an eight week period, the following one hour topics are presented as in school training: The Basics of Crime Prevention and Personal Safety, Internet Safety, Drug Prevention , Counterfeit Detection, Fraud and Gambling Prevention, Youth Employment Awareness, Staying Safe & Avoiding Trouble and CPR Training is offer as an elective component. Following these educational presentations participants take part in the second Phase of the program, the Service Phase. Participants select from two Service Project Options; a) educational announcements to share with their school community over their PA system; or b) educational posters focusing on a topic presented during the Academy Phase sessions posted within their school. Taking on this Ambassador role allows these participants to educate and inform others about crime prevention and safety techniques learned while in the Academy Phase not only within their school, but also in the community. Announcements are also displayed on the Safe City Mississauga website, and Educational Posters are displayed throughout the Mississauga community.
“St. Alouysius Gonzaga S.S is fortunate to participate in the Crossroads Youth Academy because of the opportunity it provides students to learn and grow as active and responsible citizens while embodying their civic and faith filled duties. Your topics allow students to explore their individual and societal duties to live up to their full potential impressing the need to care and give to others!” - Maria Marcellino (St. Aloysius Gonzaga S.S Teacher)
The Canadian Council of Social Development believe that by investing in youth and providing them with positive life experiences, harms and costs of crime and victimization may be avoided. Economic advantages will follow once strategic crime prevention is implemented. According to researchers ‘Social interventions can yield positive measurable benefits within three years with reductions in crime of 25%-50% within 10 years’. c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
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A program like Crossroads Youth Academy can be a vital component to the social development of youth. In reference to the profile of Youth Justice Canada, developed by the Canadian Centre for Justice Statistics, ‘Society has both the right to be protected from youth crime, as well as the responsibility to take responsible steps to prevent it. In 2000, the Department of Justice Canada held a roundtable with youth aged 14-22 to discuss a variety of youth justice issues, with one being ‘Preventing Crime’. Participants felt that they and their peers lacked ‘people’ (including parents, teachers, and community leaders) who instilled positive and healthy values into their lives, and the lack of this value system contributes to young people’s involvement in crime. Many of the precursors of delinquent behaviour are school-related and therefore likely to be amenable to change through school-based intervention. Schoolbased prevention programs or place-based prevention programs include interventions to prevent a variety of forms of “problem behaviour,” including theft, violence, illegal acts of aggression, alcohol or other drug use; rebellious behaviour, anti-social behaviour, aggressive behaviour, defiance of authority, and disrespect for others. These different forms of delinquent behaviour are highly correlated and share common causes. Strategic crime prevention brings benefits well beyond increased urban safety. It contributes to the social and economic development of municipalities, and works to improve the quality of life experienced by citizens in a community. With commitment and a desire for recognition youth can make positive differences in the areas of crime prevention and community improvement. Prevention programs involving youth can:
Reduce crime among highly a victimized population,
Change the negative image of teenagers held by many citizens and thus encourage responsible, accountable behaviour,
Welcome youth as active partners in efforts to improve the community,
Promote safer schools, where young people learn, socialize, and chart their course to maturity,
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Build channels of communication between youth and community institutions such as law enforcement, schools and government,
Teach youth the skills needed to survive and succeed in the world.
Youth who feel valued and safe see positive futures for themselves.
Counter-Act VISION: The Counter-Act program will create a safer school environment The Counter-Act Anti-Vandalism Committee was formed in the mid-1970’s by a group of community leaders concerned at the increase of vandalism in schools, private homes and commercial properties. In 1992, the CounterAct program became an integral part of Safe City Mississauga’s activities, and focuses on educating elementary school aged children on the affects and consequences of vandalism and graffiti. It also raises awareness and
of the pupil’s school. Based on a report from the Department of Justice Canada entitled ‘The Cost and Pain of Suffering from Crime in Canada’ the estimated cost of pain and suffering for non-fatal injuries from property crimes of vandalism is $788 million. Today, the Counter-Act program is available to 40 of the 149 elementary schools within Mississauga, and provides grade 4 students with a 25 minute verbal discussion and interaction, followed by a 10 minute interactive game to ensure that information is retained by students. Following the interactive game it is once again discussed how students can make a difference in their school community through education. As an additional way to help students retain the information provided and spread the message across the entire student body, the students and supervisory staff are encouraged to have their class create an anti-vandalism educational campaign either through developing announcements, or educational posters. Announcements and poster photos are placed on the Safe City Mississauga website, recognizing the school for their commitment to crime prevention and safety.
Estimated Cost of the Pain and Suffering of Crime Victims Based on Non-fatal Injuries Type of crime
Cost Based on Police-Reported Statistics ($ million)
Cost Based on General Social Survey Data ($ million)
Mischief/ Vandalism
788
2810
accountability of each individual’s responsibility to contribute to keeping Mississauga a safe place for all. The typical observer may think school vandalism is pointless, particularly when the offenders have focused on property destruction. One can better understand the behaviour when considering it in the context of adolescence, when peer influence is a particularly powerful motivator. Most delinquent acts are carried out by groups of youths, and vandalism is no exception. Participating in vandalism often helps a youth to maintain or enhance his or her status among peers. This status comes with little risk since, in contrast to playing a game or fighting, there are no winners or losers. The Ontario Safe Schools Act states that the most significant change in the new regime is the provision for mandatory suspension, mandatory expulsion and police involvement. A suspension is mandatory if a student commits an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property at the pupil’s school or to property located on the premises
There are also many social and economical advantages to the Counter-Act program. This program is offered free of charge. Students participating in the program have the opportunity to develop the attributes of respect, responsibility, and ownership, and by allowing these participants to gain these attributes they are better able to empathize how they, their families, and everyone in the community are hurt by vandalism and graffiti.
Aspire In 2007 when demands for support services and interventions became more frequent and more complex the Region of Peel began a new initiative called the Neighbourhood Capacity Support Strategy that is aimed at improving targeted at-risk communities and neighbourhoods in the Region of Peel. It is through this initiative that the Aspire program was created. c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
In 2009, Safe City Mississauga developed a pilot program called Aspire, which allows crime prevention to become an integral part of the Neighbourhood Capacity Support Strategy, through an offering of tutoring services in a specific at-risk neighbourhood for K-6th graders from 3-6pm, Monday through Friday. Local high school students are trained as tutors and acquire 40 volunteer hours for tutoring the children in the neighbourhood. We know that a good experience with schoolwork boosts confidence, social interaction and creates a foundation for hope. We also know that those qualities and attributes counter youth crime and violence. Other components of this programme include a safe place to learn, a nutritious snack, guest speakers, leadership skills training, parent meetings and many other reinforcing measures. The Roots of Youth Violence Report says that serious problems are being encountered in neighbourhoods, that then start to become trapped in a downward cycle of disadvantage and being challenged to provide the solidarity and positive rolemodeling needed to help stem the violence, while the broader community is inclined to write off these youth and these communities because they see them as the source of this problem rather than its victims. In these neighbourhoods, we also heard about the impacts this violence is having on communities. These impacts included
“This program is so much fun! It’s great because it helps me stay at the top of my class in math. I like coming to work with my tutor because she is very nice,a good role model and she helps me correct my mistakes when we do work together. I give the Aspire program two thumbs up! :)” - Program Participant
fear in neighbourhoods is on the rise, a code of silence taking hold, communities and youth being stereotyped and becoming desensitized to violence, violence becoming an acceptable way of dealing with conflict, gangs proliferating, students having more difficulty focusing on school, teaching becoming more difficult, schools being unsafe, youth suffering from depression and social service agencies increasingly unable to keep up with the demand for services. c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
Education is not merely a process that involves teaching the academics. It also includes teaching children social skills which will help students feel more competent at school, at home, and in the community. Developing
“Aspire is a great program and positive results are being seen with my son at school. This positivity does not rest solely at his increased academic skills, but socially he is opening up more and expressing content at having the opportunity to spend time with his tutors. I am so glad to see my son showing excitement about learning, and this program is amazing in how it provides the tutors, which volunteer of their own will to spend time with the children, the opportunity to give back to the community in such both a wonderful and meaningful way.”
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- Parent of a Participant
social skills at school is as significant as the academic domain. Learning how to get along with others, developing friendships, and establishing a positive out-look on life are critical. Students who are without social skills development experience rejection from classmates and learn to avoid social situations. Feelings of hurt and disappointment are the outcome and affect the child’s ability to feel positive about school, peers, and life in general. There are many social and economic advantages to the Aspire program. This program is offered free of charge to those that live within the programs boundaries. Providing students with free after school tutoring within their neighbourhood will allow students to develop not only stronger academic skills, that will show an improvement in grades, more participation in school, less resistance towards completing homework, and less fear or anxiety about attending school. It will also allow students to build stronger social skills while working with positive role models such as self confidence; self worth, allowing them to make healthier choices in life that are right for them. CS
for more information visit: safecitymississauga.on.ca crimesense
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Advertorial Feature
The Anishinabek Police Service provides policing services to 17 First Nation communities across Ontario, stretching from Kettle & Stony Point First Nation in the south to Fort William First Nation in the north. The APS Headquarters is located in Garden River First Nation near Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. There are twelve detachments serving the sixteen First Nations. Anishinabek Police Service has 62 sworn officers and 21 civilian members. Recently, APS secured funding for an elder abuse prevention program titled Protecting the Golden Years, delivered by the Domestic Violence Unit in partnership with the Family Life Theatre, based in Sault Ste. Marie. The goal is to increase awareness in First Nations’ communities about elder abuse and neglect, identify needs and gaps in existing social support services & resources and provide resource information that does exist to support those elders who’ve experienced or are experiencing abuse. Delivery format comprises either a power point presentation and question and answer to follow or a theatrical performance by the Family Life Theatre entitled “The Shattered Years” followed by a question and answer. The National Center on Elder Abuse defines elder abuse as, “any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult.” There are a number of types: physical, emotional, spiritual, sexual, institutional and financial. Forty percent of abuse is committed by immediate family members according to the National Centre on Elder Abuse statistics, fifteen percent by a spouse and nine percent grandchildren. Ten percent of abuse is committed by others unknown to the elder victim. Financial abuse is becoming more prevalent and is referred to as the “crime of the 21st century.” Financial abuse is accomplished in a number of ways, most common are grandparent scams, lottery scams, identity theft, theft, debit card scam, credit card scams, email scams, phony charity scams, health and cure all medicine scams and guardianship/attorney to name a few. Only one in five incidents of abuse is reported because the witness does not want to get involved, it is unclear if the act constitutes abuse, it is believed the act is not serious, there is fear of retaliation, the elder may be isolated and trust crimesense
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no one, the elder fears he/she may be placed in a care facility and have no further contact with children/grandchildren, an elder may not have the mental capacity due to illness and is unable to comprehend what is occurring, there is shame if abuse involves a family member or abuser simply possesses an ageist attitude. Signs of abuse are like neon lights in many cases. Bruises from being hit, withdrawn due to emotional/spiritual abuse, swelling/welts caused from being hit with an object, anxious or afraid to speak to anyone because elder was told not to, broken bones from being pushed to the ground, cuts, burns, low self-esteem due to emotional and mental abuse, weight change due to not eating because abuser has taken your money from you, grip (hand or rope) marks from being restrained in a chair or bed or force fed, trembling from being mentally/ emotionally/ spiritually terrorized, unkempt because elder is not physically capable of caring for self without assistance, sleepiness due to over medicating, teary eyed from feeling hopeless, can’t afford to pay bills because abuser has taken your money, in pain because abuser has taken your pain medication, no medical aids because abuser will not drive elder to medical appointments, caregiver is overwhelmed with the responsibility of caring for elder and tending to other family needs and has no relief. Signs of financial abuse are not as immediately evident and oftentimes by the time it’s discovered there’s been fraudulent activity, it’s too late. Financial abuse can occur in many ways: the one who holds a power of attorney can withdraw money from an account for personal use, make a credit card purchase or forge documents resulting in the sale of assets – a power of attorney is effective when the power of attorney document is signed or a condition, within the document, is met (there are different types of powers of attorney; it’s best to consult a lawyer for advice). Elder abuse & neglect is a growing “silent” crime and is everyone’s responsibility to change - we all must do our part by standing up and speaking out against it. Change occurs thru education/awareness, action, prevention and commitment; this is our goal. If you see it, report it and if we work together we will prevent it! Call Police Services or Crimestoppers if you have witnessed an elder being abused. Be a voice for someone who isn’t strong enough to use theirs.
One thing is certain DO NOTHING—NOTHING DONE! c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
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c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
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youth crime causes, links, and solutions
and mental health
Department of Psychology University of Toronto
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Šcopyright iStockphoto.com | nico_blue
By: Dax Urbszat, LL.B., Ph.D.
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M
ost individuals in law enforcement, politics, education, and research agree that Mental Health issues have an important
impact
on
the
creation
and
maintenance
of criminal behaviour. This may be especially true for younger individuals dealing with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. It has been suggested that mental disorders constitute the largest burden of disease in youth and it has been estimated that as many as 20% of youth experience serious mental health problems, usually as a result of mental disorders.1 “Mental disorders are highly prevalent in young people, comprising approximately one-third of the global burden of disease in this age group; approximately 75% onset before 24 years of age.”2 Mental health issues in adolescence may reflect disorders of childhood that have persisted, or they may be the first onset of a disorder that may well last into adulthood. The consequences of mental illness include “life-long difficulty with substantial morbidity, significant c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
socioeconomic consequences and increased early mortality.” crimesense
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Although the prevalence of mental disorders in young people is well documented, it would seem that only a portion of youth suffering with mental illness will receive the proper assessment, diagnosis, and treatment that they require. Recent studies suggest that only 25-30% of youth who require mental health treatment will actually receive it.3,4 “Two of every three depressed children do not receive an appropriate diagnosis by a primary care physician, and even when a diagnosis is given, only 50% receive appropriate treatment.”5 For a myriad of reasons there are not enough mental health services available to meet the needs of Canadian youth. Many of these problems include “long waiting lists for specialty mental health service, lack of mental health care in
for many of these youth is poor and urgent calls are being made to respond to the treatment and rehabilitation needs of youth within these settings”.10 While not created or intended for this purpose, detention facilities are now the largest providers of mental health services for young people, yet the juvenile justice system is not equipped for the proper assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health problems. Recent research suggests that 25% of those hospitalized for a mental illness have a history of criminal behaviour.11 Other research shows that up to 70% of incarcerated adolescents suffer from mental disorders that significantly impair their functioning in multiple domains.12,13 The prevalence of mental disorders in the criminal justice system is at least two to
“youth suffering from mental health problems are being directed into the juvenile-justice system due to a lack of accessible and appropriate mental health care” primary care, inadequate numbers of health providers with necessary mental health competencies, poor coordination among institutions and organizations serving young people and government agencies tasked with ensuring service provision, and lack of specific child and youth mental health polices at both the provincial and federal levels.” To further complicate the matter, there are growing concerns that increasing numbers of youth suffering from mental health problems are being directed into the juvenile-justice system due to a lack of accessible and appropriate mental health care.6,7 A convincing body of research shows that the majority of children and youth within correctional settings suffer from one or more mental disorders.8,9 Not surprisingly, the mental health prognoses crimesense
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four times greater than in the general adolescent population.14 The large number of young people in institutions who require mental health services has overwhelmed the justice system, which is ill-equipped and ill-prepared to deal with the pressing needs of so many. This has lead to poor outcomes for youth with mental illness who become incarcerated. “Only one-third of incarcerated males and one-fourth of incarcerated females needing mental health services receive them, raising concerns that custodial interventions are replacing the need for therapeutic mental health care. Effectively addressing the mental health needs of young people before their becoming involved in the juvenile justice system may result in fewer incarcerations and improved short-and
long-term person, social and economic outcomes.”15 There are numerous reasons for the high rates of mental disorders among incarcerated youth. While some reasons may be fairly obvious, others are less clear. Certainly, one factor adding to the problem is the fact that “the presence of a mental disorder at the time of apprehension for suspicion of a criminal act increases the likelihood of a negative outcome in terms of subsequent contact with the justice system.” This includes “higher rates of arrests at the scene of the offense, longer detention periods and higher rates of recidivism.”16 Whatever the reasons may be, it is clear that the juvenile justice system is not the type of environment that will help in attaining optimum outcomes with youth that have serious mental health concerns, in fact, it is likely that institutionalization in the justice system may lead to or exacerbate mental health issues. The possibility of victimization by staff or other inmates, new access to controlled substances, confinement, and separation from social support systems are only some of the potential problems that can lead to a worsening of mental health in at risk youth. These factors, as well as others, also increase the risk of suicide in a population of youth whose risk is already elevated due to mental illness.17 In one study it was found that “nearly two thirds of males and nearly three quarters of females met diagnostic criteria for one or more psychiatric disorders. Excluding conduct disorder (common among detained youth), nearly 60% of males and more than two thirds of females met diagnostic criteria and had diagnosis-specific impairment for one or more psychiatric disorders.” It was also found that half of all males and nearly half of all females in incarceration met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IVtr (DSM-IV) criteria for a substance use disorder. As well, more than 20% of females met criteria for a major depressive episode.18 The results of this study suggest substantial co-morbidity of mental disorders among juvenile detainees and the authors suggest that “youth with psychiatric disorders pose a challenge for the juvenile justice system and, after their release, for the larger mental health system.” c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
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c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
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30.4% of incarcerated youth met criteria for depression
20%
of youth experience serious mental health problems
25-30% of youth who require mental health treatment will actually receive it
female
male
30% 20% percentage with substance use disorders that also met criteria for at least one other major mental disorder
70%
of incarcerated adolescents suffer from mental disorders
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75%
of mental health problems onset before the age of 24
c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
©copyright iStockphoto.com | alptraum
In another study conducted on newly arrested and incarcerated youth in Cook County, Illinois it was found that 56.6% of females and 45.9% of males met criteria for 2 or more of the following disorders: major depressive, dysthymic, bi-polar, psychotic, panic, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, attention-deficit/ hyperactivity, conduct, oppositional defiant, alcohol, marijuana, and other substance. They also found that the “odds of having co-morbid disorders were higher than expected by chance for most demographic subgroups”. . . and that “nearly 14% of females and 11% of males had both a major mental disorder (psychosis, manic episode, or major depressive episode) and a substance use disorder. Compared with participants with no major mental disorder (the residual category), those with a major mental disorder had significantly greater odds (1.8-4.1) of having substance use disorders.”19 The study also states that nearly 30% of females and more than 20% of males with substance use disorders also met criteria for at least one other major mental disorder. The link between substance abuse and other mental disorders is well established. As a cause or a symptom of mental illness, issues regarding substance abuse remain paramount in the factors contributing both to mental illness and participation in the juvenile justice system. It would seem that the “general consensus across studies is that the vast majority of incarcerated youth meet formal criteria for at least one DSMIV disorder . . . with approximately 20% of youth meeting diagnostic criteria for a serious mental health disorder – defined as serious emotional disturbance resulting in functional impairment.”20 With over 120,000 children and adolescents being held within juvenile justice facilities across North America on any given day, this represents a huge number of young people in need of proper psychiatric and psychological care. However, as stated previously, the justice system is not designed or equipped to deal with the mental health needs of such an overwhelming number of youth. Mental health issues represent a risk factor for youth to be involved in substance c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
abuse and the juvenile justice system. Thus, efforts should be directed towards diversion of youth from the justice system and prevention and proper treatment of mental health issues.
Diversion from the Justice System to the Mental Health System There are a number of specific programs that attempt to divert individuals with mental health issues from the criminal justice system to a wider range of community support systems, particularly, mental health treatment and support. “Preliminary results demonstrate a number of positive outcomes including reduced risk for recidivism, less jail time, more involvement with mental health professionals and increased use of community–based
services.”21,22 However, the success of these types of programs is dependent upon multi-agency communication and participation including “the availability of highly trained staff, a judiciary that is familiar with and supportive of this approach, and effective collaboration with health, mental health and community service providers.” In British Columbia, the policy framework for diversion of persons with a mental disorder states “there are a disproportionate number of people with mental disorders in the criminal justice and correctional systems. This is not only seen as an inappropriate consequence for illness related behaviour, but is also increasingly seen as a waste of valuable
law enforcement and criminal justice system time, and of resources that may be more effectively spent on improving community mental health services.” This policy statement is arguably even more fitting for youth and the juvenile justice system. The Youth Criminal Justice Act encourages diversion and conferencing. Conferencing is a set of processes that bring concerned parties together to consult about decisions that must be made following the commission of a serious crime by a young person. Conferencing uses practices from diversion, as discussed above, and restorative justice movements in juvenile justice. Placing an emphasis on the importance of mental health issues during conferencing is one possible way to address the mental health needs of youth involved in the justice system.23 Acknowledgment of the fact that the rate of youth with mental health needs is disproportionately high in the juvenile justice system has led to other diversion programs being introduced such as wraparound programs. Wraparound planning involves families and providers in helping to coordinate mental health, juvenile justice, and any other services and supports. One study compared data from two groups of juvenile offenders with mental health problems and found that youth in the Connections program were significantly less likely to recidivate at all, less likely to recidivate with a felony offense, and served less detention time. Another study done in four New York counties looked at a program called Project Connect. Project Connect is a multi layered program aimed at “linking juvenile probationers to needed mental health and substance use services.” Interventions included “cooperative agreements between probation and mental health authorities, program materials to facilitate referral, in-service training for probation officers, and systematic screening for mental health needs. . . Compared to Baseline, under Project Connect, referred youths were 2.7 times as likely to access services, regardless of youth or county characteristics, service availability, or when the intervention took place.” Diversion programs with an emphasis on proper mental health treatment have shown some promising results. crimesense
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Which Disorders have the Greatest Impact on the Justice System Given the full range of mental disorders seen in youth today there are several disorders that are commonly associated with youth involved in the justice system. As mood and anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental disorders in North America it is not surprising that they are overrepresented in incarcerated youth populations. Ulzen and Hamilton (1998)24 found that 30.4% of incarcerated youth met criteria for depression compared to only 4.1% in the community sample. They also found that 21.3% of males and 30.8% of females met criteria for an Anxiety disorder compared to only 4.1% among community youth. Studies in the United States report similar prevalence rates of depression and anxiety for incarcerated youth.25 As stated previously, substance use disorders are highly prevalent in youth and incarcerated youth populations. Substance use disorders are also highly comorbid with mood and anxiety disorders. Other disorders that are less prevalent, but deserve special attention, due to the prolonged course of the disorders include Conduct disorder, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder. These disorders are likely present from before adolescence and respond best to early interventions. Diagnosis of these disorders is more difficult, but the consequences of these disorders not being treated may be severe with regard to general functioning and risk for entering the juvenile justice system.
Increased Access to the Best Treatments Available Many youth with mental health problems do not get adequate treatment. One of the reasons mentioned above was long waiting lists for specialty mental health service. Standard waiting times for Anxiety or Mood disorder clinics is often 6 months to a year. Also, there is lack of mental health care and training in primary care physicians resulting in the standard treatment for anxiety and depression being anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medications. Even those who are referred to a specialist and go on to see a Psychiatrist will still likely find anti-anxiety and antidepressant medication as the recommended crimesense
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treatment. However, “from an evidencebased perspective, cognitive-behavioral therapy is currently the treatment of choice for anxiety and depressive disorders in children and adolescents.”
“those who are referred to a specialist and go on to see a Psychiatrist will still likely find anti-anxiety and antidepressant medication as the recommended treatment.” This creates a major problem for treatment outcomes, as those in need of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) will be unlikely to receive this form of treatment. CBT is a model that is practiced in greater numbers by clinical Psychologists, whereas, Psychiatrists are less likely to be trained in this particular form of psychotherapy. In Ontario, treatment by a clinical psychologist is not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan. In order to see a clinical Psychologist for CBT, unless the psychologist is attached to a hospital clinic, patients will have to pay through insurance or out of pocket. Thus, access to CBT is restricted to those who are patient enough to remain on the wait list or those that can pay by other means. In Peel region for example, it is very difficult to get a referral from a primary care physician to a psychiatrist that is willing or able to perform cognitive-behavioural treatments. As stated above, inadequate numbers of health care providers have the necessary mental health competencies to practice CBT. Specifically, there is a lack of access and availability for cognitivebehavioural treatment and therapies, which is the treatment of choice for anxiety, depression, and substance abuse in children and adolescents. Heavy and sole reliance on medication as treatment for anxiety and depression is an issue in all populations, but particularly with children and adolescents.26
Prevention of Mental Illness through Education In addition to supporting governmental adoption of youth mental health courts, the creation of diversion programs that emphasize mental health issues, and increasing access to the best available treatments for mental illness, efforts should be directed towards the prevention of mental illness. Almost invariably, early intervention and treatment will bring about better treatment outcomes. By educating the judiciary, first responders, those involved in youth justice services, and community members in general, mental health issues can be better understood and acted upon at an earlier stage, before they contribute to the likelihood of contact with the justice system. In the practice of CognitiveBehavioural therapy, one of the first steps in creating any treatment plan involves Psycho-education. Psychoeducation is simply learning about the current knowledge and research concerning all aspects of the disorder the person suffers from. Information like prevalence rates can decrease stigma and let the person know that they are not alone in having this particular disorder. Information about course, symptoms, treatments, etc…, can help inform the person understand the facts regarding their disorder, including important information like co-morbidity with substance abuse for example. Specific educational programs for middle and high school could be created that educate about anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, as well as the links between these disorders. Once again, Psycho-education programs could be created for parents and community members as well. Intensive psycho-education programs could also be designed for high-risk youth and those who have had extensive contact with the justice system. Whatever programs are designed and implemented, it is crucial that they are properly evaluated for outcomes and that they meet the fundamental criteria of program accountability and scientific merit. And, as always, financial resources and feasibility remain constant constraints on any proposed programs. c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
Conclusion It is well understood that mental health is an important contributor to the issues of crime and deviance in any society. While many reports cite mental health as an area to consider, there are very few programs that emphasize the important link that mental illness plays in criminality, especially in the juvenile justice system. Hopefully, there will be continued support for governmental programs like youth mental health courts, diversion programs that place an emphasis on the mental health needs, conferencing, and others. In addition to some of the traditional problems that create a lack of access to mental health care, the issue of limited access to cognitive-behavioural treatments is a particular problem for youth with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Most youth who receive treatment for their mental illness will be treated using medications alone, which does not represent the treatment that shows the best outcomes and is known to have many more complications and risks associated. Improving access to CBT may involve a changing of the services included under OHIP. Perhaps, at the very least, this could be established for youth or at risk youth, or youth that have had initial contact with the justice system. Finally, as stated above, a more immediate solution involves educational programs. Education at all levels and to all relevant audiences will help people to understand mental illness in order to lessen stigma, improve ability to identify mental illness, improve chances of seeking treatment, and improve treatment outcomes by having earlier interventions and knowledge about the best available treatments. Psychoeducation programs in the community should also demonstrate clearly the links between mental illness, substance abuse, and criminal behaviour. It should be possible to create a “detour from delinquency” by preventing, properly assessing, and efficiently treating mental illness in young people, thereby keeping them from a future that involves the juvenile and criminal justice systems. CS c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
“a better informed community lessens the stigma of having mental illness, increases understanding among community members and service providers, and it has the potential to promote early intervention by giving youth the information necessary to identify and seek help for mental illness as early as possible.”
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References 18, 19 -Abram, K.M., Teplin, L.A., McClelland, G.M., Dulcan, M.K. (2003) Comorbid Psychiatric Disorders in Youth in Juvenile Detention. Archives of General Psychiatry. 60:1097–1108.
2, 5, 7, 12, 15, 16 - Kutcher, S. & McDougall, A. (2009) Problems with access to adolescent mental health care can lead to dealings with the criminal justice system. Pediatrics and Child Heath,v. 14(1).
8 - Andre, G., Pease, K., Kendall, K., & Boulton, A. (1994). Health and Offence Histories of Young Offenders in Saskatoon, Canada. Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health. 4:163–180.
10, 13, 20 - Odgers, C.L., Burnette, M.L., Chauhan, P., Moretti, M.M., Reppucci, N.D. (2005). Misdiagnosing the problem: Mental health profiles of incarcerated juveniles. Can Child Adolesc Psych Rev. 14:26–9.
6, 11, 14, 21, 22 - Canadian Institute for Health Information Improving the health of Canadians: Mental health, delinquency and criminal activity. < www.cihi.ca>. (Version current at October 31, 2008).
17 - Sanislow, C.A., Grilo, C.M., Fehon, D.C., Axelrod, S.R., McGlashan, T.H. (2003). Correlates of suicide risk in juvenile detainees and adolescent inpatients. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.42:234–40.
3 - Leitch, K.K. (2007). Reaching for the top: A report by the advisor on healthy children & youth. Ottawa: Health Canada; 2007. < http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca> (Version current at October 31, 2008).
25 - Teplin, L.A., Abram, K.M., McClelland, G.M., Dulcan, M.K., Mericle, A.A. (2002). Psychiatric disorders in youth in juvenile detention. Archives of general psychiatry. 59:1133–1143.
23 - Hillian, D., Reitsma-Street, M., & Hackler, J. (2006). Conferencing in the Youth Criminal Justice Act of Canada: Policy Developments in British Columbia. Canadian Journal of Criminology and Criminal Justice, 46(30), 343-366.
9, 24 - Ulzen, T.P.M., & Hamilton, H. (1998). The nature and characteristics of psychiatric comorbidity in incarcerated adolescents. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. 43:57–63.
4 - Kirby, M.J. & Keon, W.J. (2006). Final Report of The Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology. Out of the shadows at last: Transforming mental health, mental illness and addiction services in Canada.
1 - Waddell C, Hua JM, Garland OM, Peters RD, McEwan K. (2007). Preventing mental disorders in children: A systematic review to inform policy-making. Can J Public Health. 98:166–73. 26 - Wasserman, G.A., McReynolds, L.S., Musibegovic, H., Whited, A.L., Keating, J.M., & Huo, Y. (2009). Evaluating Project Connect: Improving
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Advertorial Feature
WHO WE ARE
The U of T Mississauga Campus Police Service consists of a Manager, Assistant Manager, four Corporals and seven Constables. Campus Police are responsible for the safety and security of students, staff, faculty and visitors and the protection of the U of T Mississauga property. All officers are sworn in by Peel Regional Police as Special Constables for the purposes of keeping the peace on U of T Mississauga campus. Service and assistance to the community is provided on a twenty four hour basis, every day of the week. Officers patrol on foot, in a patrol car and on bicycles.
MANDATE OF SERVICES
In our interactions with the community, we emphasize approachability, accountability, openness, and community partnerships. We are dedicated in providing a safer campus environment for students, staff, faculty and visitors. We pride ourselves in being part of an interdependent university community set in a large regional urban area. We view campus safety as a responsibility to be shared by all community members.
To support the academic mission of the university, the Campus Police work in partnership with our community: • • • • • • • •
to protect persons and property by developing programs and conducting activities that promote safety and security; to prevent came, maintain the peace, resolve conflicts and promote good order; to deliver non-discriminatory, inclusive programs to our diverse community; to remain accountable to our community. to provide referral to community services; to respond to emergencies and provide assistance to faculty, students and staff; to ensure university policies and regulations are followed, and to enforce the criminal code and selected provincial and municipal statutes as necessary;
COMMUNITY BASED POLICING
Community based policing is the philosophy behind our service. We are proactive in our thinking and encourage approachability. Our emphasis is on prevention rather than punitive action. Contacts with the community are not confined to incident investigations but also include liaisons and outreach programs.
Physical Security Measures
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The Campus Police Office
Office location: South Building Room 2117 Please note as of January 1st, 2010 the Campus Police office will be relocated to South Building, Room # 3116
For immediate emergency assistance on university property call:
905-569-4333
To enhance safety of campus, the following security measures are available:
For non-emergencies and information call:
• Emergency telephones located throughout the campus • All pay phones on campus have free calls to Campus Police and 911 • Well lit in parking lots and walkways • Close Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV)
In life threatening situations call 911prior to contacting Campus Police www.utm.utoronto.ca/police E-mail: police.utm.utoronto.ca
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by: Teresa
Burgess-Ogilvie
On Saturday, September 11, 2010, Safe City Mississauga and University of Toronto Mississauga hosted our first Crime Prevention Conference. An integrated and shared vision of how local action can help to create safer cities began in October 1989, twenty years ago, when the first European and North American conference on Urban Safety and the Prevention of Crime was held in Montreal. Investing smartly in the safety for the City of Mississauga requires a sound and effective model to guide crime reduction through a systematic planning and implementation process that will ensure that we address problems in an effective manner. Safe City Mississauga was formed to contribute to the reduction of criminal opportunity and criminal victimization in the community of Mississauga by: (a) Providing resources, staff assistance, professional community leadership and guidance for crime prevention programs such as Neighbourhood Watch, Crossroads Youth Academy, CounterAct and Aspire; (b) Providing support and guidance for crime prevention activities by all Peel Regional Police Liaison Committees, other organizations, corporations and individuals; (c) Providing a communication network for the exchange of ideas and information among Safe City Mississauga and community members; (d) Encouraging crime prevention education within the public, private and voluntary sectors; (e) Researching, developing and implementing new community crime prevention programs and activities; and (f) Providing a liaison with other crime prevention organizations and practitioners for the exchange of ideas and information beneficial to reducing crime. crimesense
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Safe City Mississauga, from a strategic context, acknowledges that crime prevention requires those living in a society to be aware of individual responsibility in reducing crime. Safe City Mississauga identified that a Community Crime Prevention Action Plan for the City of Mississauga needs to be developed and requires collaborative and problemsolving relationships in order to effectively engage and mobilize the community to reduce crime and improve community safety. Using a business case guide, the Community Crime Prevention Conference proved to be the most highly effective way to address key factors of the Community Crime Prevention Action Plan as it engaged the public and practitioners as well as created an effective collaboration between municipal, regional, provincial and federal representatives. The desired outcomes were to use an effective communications strategy to: • Understand the impact of crime and public insecurity on the economic and social development of the City • Review proven crime prevention models and initiatives • Understand how crime prevention initiatives are measured/evaluated • Receive participant feedback and mobilization for community safety surveys • Develop effective collaboration of partnerships with a common crime prevention interest • Incorporate outcomes to guide the local safety audit, community safety diagnosis, corrective process development/policy, and evaluations to reduce crime
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Our identified drivers for change include increase efficiency, effectiveness and quality of programs through local community engagement and mobilization in the development of comprehensive community safety planning to identify and tackle the situations that put youth, families, neighbourhoods, schools and businesses at risk of crime and victimization. This would require a Society Driver, to improve partner collaboration of services including housing, social services, recreation, policing and public health to intervene early in the lives of high-risk families and “Crime is an issue which children, improving conditions affects us all and the nature in disadvantaged areas and of crime and the many factors focusing on the conditions which affect its likelihood that breed crime are highly varies among communities. It effective in reducing crime and is therefore vitally important improving community safety. that a comprehensive plan be This would also require formulated to deal with crime an Academic Driver, and to identify local issues and to improve partner community-based strategies to collaboration of research aid in crime prevention. Engaging including impact analysis the community as a whole in this on demographics and socioregard will ultimately increase economic variables, crime the likelihood of success. The mapping, and program Crime Prevention Conference is a evaluation methods, etc. positive approach in identifying University of Toronto the impact of crime and Mississauga is the premier developing constructive solutions university serving the which will help to ensure that our residents of Mississauga and communities remain safe for all.” since crime prevention and reduction is a combination Mayor Hazel McCallion of social, economic, and City of Mississauga geographical factors it placed UTM in the best position to provide a myriad of professional academic research and analysis to support the Community Crime Prevention Conference and subsequently, the citywide Crime Prevention Action Plan. At the conference, Dr. Hargurdeep (Deep) Saini, an experienced administrator, researcher and teacher currently serving as the Principal of University of Toronto Mississauga and Vice-President of the University of Toronto, where he is also a Professor of Biology welcomed the registrants and shared some of his own personal thoughts as to the importance of crime prevention. Much of the conference success was due to the dedication and enthusiasm of UT Mississauga administrator, Mr. Paul Donahue, Professor Dana Wilson and Campus Police Chief Len Paris. The conference attracted people interested in community crime prevention contributing to their readiness to be engaged and mobilized. We will take the feedback from the registrants, speakers and stakeholders to create the attributes of a safe and secure community and identify factors that have a direct impact on feelings of insecurity and to create a safety and crime prevention profile for Mississauga that may be used by community partners to determine future priorities and to focus a collective effort. c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
The main trend identified post conference was that there is a lot more to crime prevention than anyone imagined. Registrants asked for the conference to be extended “over a two day period”. It is true that this conference was packed with speakers and subsequently, information.
Dr. Irvin Waller, PhD, University of Ottawa is a Full Professor of Criminology at the University of Ottawa and Vice-President of the International Organization for Victim Assistance. He continues to advise national and local governments across the world and talk to concerned citizens and taxpayers. He has 40 years of prize winning work in government, with governments and outside governments to prevent crime, reduce the over-reliance on cops, courts and corrections, and empower victims. He was President of the World Society of Victimology, founding CEO of the International Centre for Prevention of Crime affiliated with the United Nations, and founding CEO of the Institute for Crime Prevention at Ottawa University. His contributions have been recognized by governments in Europe and North America as well as international non-governmental organizations. Reducing Crime, already in paperback in English, French and Spanish, with Chinese and German versions to appear this year. His visionary views on how governments can prevent violence but not through more police and prisons are not just being listened to, but adopted by governments who mean business. This internationally renowned author is working on a He is the author of Less Law, More Order: The Truth about sequel on crime victim rights to empower voters to get politicians to change the way justice is administered from more punishment to more respect, truth and safety.
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Christine Sadeler, Executive Director of Waterloo Region Crime Prevention Council discussed Crime Prevention Strategy. Crime Prevention is often been regarded as the mandate of provincial, territorial and federal governments. Municipalities and communities around the country beg to differ. While there are immediate and obvious roles for provinces, territories and the government of Canada, the capacity of communities to prevent and reduce crime, victimization and fear of crime is not to be underestimated and in fact should be actively supported and harnessed. Christiane will speak about the strategic efforts in Waterloo Region that since the inception of the WR Crime Prevention Council have contributed to Waterloo Region being one of the safest communities in Canada. Long term, focused and based planning and action can significantly impact public safety and security as one of the key quality of life measures affecting municipalities. Nicola Epprecht, Regional Director, National Crime Prevention Centre reviewed some of the model and promising crime prevention projects currently being implemented across Canada with NCPC’s support, as well as discussed the evaluation plans for these projects. The NCPS is based on the premise that well-designed interventions can have a positive influence on behaviours; crimes can be reduced or prevented by addressing risk factors that can lead to offending. Successful interventions have been shown to reduce not only victimization, but also the social and economic costs that result from criminal activities and the costs related to processing cases in the criminal justice system.
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Surrinder Aujla, Public Prosecution Service of Canada discussed what government officials, school board trustees, law enforcement officers, social service workers and others working to reduce and prevent crime at the local level should know from a federal level. Which federal laws are most prevalent at the municipal level (what is occurring locally and trialed at the federal level) and what are the sentencing for such crimes and why. Mr. Aujla discussed how federal crime data can support developing a comprehensive crime prevention and crime reduction initiatives when integrated into local policy and practice. “I am so pleased the University of Toronto Mississauga worked collaboratively with the Safe City Mississauga to organize such a successful first conference on crime prevention in our community. The University brings to this partnership its strong track record in impactful research and its educational mission — both of which are crucial components of crime reduction. Mississauga is a great place to live and raise a family, and we can make it even better by working together to formulate evidence-based policies and strategies to reduce crime in our community.” Deep Saini University of Toronto Mississauga
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Dr. Dax Urbszat, PhD, UTM, Asst. Professor in Psychology discussed Youth, Crime, and Mental Health Causes, Links and Solutions. Most individuals in law enforcement, politics, education, and research agree that Mental Health issues have an important impact on the creation and maintenance of criminal behaviour. This may be especially true for younger individuals dealing with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. However, there has been less emphasis placed on programs that have thoughtfully considered the interactive effects of mental health issues on criminal behaviour in youth populations. This talk will try to demonstrate the links between mental health issues and criminal and anti-social behaviour in young offenders and offer some suggestions for ways to proceed in the future that will help address this serious threat to community safety and crime prevention. See Dr. Dax Urbszatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s editorial on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youth Crime and Mental Healthâ&#x20AC;? on page 27
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Len Paris, Manager Campus Police Services, University of Toronto Mississauga discussed Campus Police officers operate under a very difficult mandate of providing safety and security in institutions that are expected to be very open and encourages freedom of expression and movement. The campus environment also involves a high degree of collaboration and partnerships in solving community issues and problems. The Campus Police department operates on the philosophy that campus safety, security and crime prevention is a responsibility of all members of the community. This talk will look at the types and quality of community partnerships and community involvement that promotes a healthy and caring community. This talk will focus on how to involve students, staff and faculty in campus safety and crime prevention programs. It will also examine the importance of good communication and resolution strategies with stakeholders including local police.
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Dana Helene Wilson, PhD, University of Toronto Mississauga, Assistant Professor, Department of Geography – Co-Presenter, Mark Saltmarsh, Crown Attorney, Region of Peel discussed the Exploration of the Social Determinants of Crime in the Region of Peel. Inequalities in income, education and housing are strong predictors of both the rates of crime in a community and other aspects of community health and wellbeing. This talk focuses on recent geographic research that explores the social determinants of crime phenomena throughout the Region of Peel. Patterns of crime, demographic characteristics and socio-economic conditions are assessed to better understand factors in the local social environment that may make certain places and subpopulations more vulnerable to criminal involvement. Implications of results are discussed relation to local initiatives that may work simultaneously to reduce crime and promote community health, particularly among vulnerable groups like youth. The talk will conclude by outlining future research directions that rely on interdisciplinary approaches and geographical techniques to improve our understanding of the social determinants of crime through greater attention to the role of the social environment. Constable Tom McKay, Peel Regional Police asked and discussed Does the Safest City in Canada have a recipe for success? While it is generally accepted that Mississauga is the safest city of its size in Canada, few people can answer the question why. This presentation looked at some of the factors that have contributed to this success and what we need to do in order to maintain our status. Alison Weir, PhD, University of Toronto Mississauga, Professor, Department of Mathematical and Computational Science, presented the Safest City Report in the format of Estimating the Impact of Demographics and Socio-Economic Variables on Canadian Crime Severity Indices. At the first year conference, the idea was to pepper the registrants with as much exposure to various aspects of crime prevencrimesense
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tion as possible. Then, in subsequent years, begin offering specialized tracks. It was also meant to expose the registrants to the necessity of statistical analysis, evaluation methodologies, hence the conference theme, “harnessing the evidence – harnessing what works”. What we found was a resounding echo of the registrants was the conference was data packed but I want more time to get the full comprehension. That was encouraging! We will be presenting topic areas into a more manageable stream in 2011 and offering the opportunity to select tracks, i.e., social worker, law enforcement or by topic areas, i.e., community crime prevention track, a youth track, a practitioner track, and various other ideas are being discussed based on the registrant comments. See Alison’s editorial on “Why Crime Rates Don’t Measure Public Safety” on page 8
Based on the outcome analysis, the conference stakeholders, host, presenters, organizers, volunteers and sponsors can rest assure that the conference is a positive investment as the principal way to raise awareness of the individual commitment required to prevent and reduce crime and find the tools available to support the communities, broadly defined to include groups of people, neighbourhoods, similar interest like business groups, or around a particular activity, like sports. We will continue to track these and other identified outcomes added in the subsequent years. It a Community funded Event. R egistrants purchased tickets at $125 which proved to be a fair price point for a one day conference. Rogers provided multiple segments leading up to the conference to inspire and promote discussion about the conference and its purpose. They are also providing segments of this year’s conference into their programming to air prior to next year’s conference. We are also fortunate to have the body of knowledge from the annual conference supported by Vantage Publishing in the CrimeSense magazine and with a monetary contribution as a Diamond sponsor. And finally, due to the founding sponsor level of monetary contribution from BELL, we will continue to recognize and promote public recognition appeal to actively engage individuals and organizations for making a significant contribution to preventing and/or reducing crime or improving community safety through the HERO awards. Special “Thank You” to Mayor Hazel McCallion, Dr. Deep Saini, and Deputy Chief Dan McDonald from Peel Regional Police for bringing opening welcome remarks and we look forward to seeing you at the 2011 Crime Prevention Conference on Friday, November 4th, 2011 to be held at the University of Toronto, Mississauga. CS c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
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“You see that guy watching the store? He’s just staring at us.” “That one, wearing the grey coat, sitting on the bench in the mall right in front of the door?”
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“Isn’t that Anna’s ex? When she and I were working the afternoon shift together last year, he used to pick her up after work every night. He was always in a grumpy mood.” Maybe I met him once or twice, didn’t they break up, like, last spring? “I worked with Anna last weekend. She said ever since they separated, he’s been extra strange. He leaves her messages on her voice mail saying that I poisoned her mind against him, and that she should quit and work somewhere else, then they could be together.” “Hey, that’s spooky... I hope he isn’t going to sit there all day,“ “He better be gone by the time the manager comes in at 11, I don’t want to get in trouble over this.”
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omeone might get in trouble in this scenario, but it shouldn’t be either of these two women who opened the store that morning. Since the introduction of legislation in Ontario commonly known as Bill 168, last
June, employers have a responsibility to combat workplace related violence and criminal harassment. As many counsellors working with women know, situations like the one touched on above always produce unease and emotional discomfort, and all too often lead to threatening situations and sometimes physical violence. Any of these effects has a negative impact on employee absenteeism, retention of good staff, morale, and the bottom-line – profitability.
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Well, “they” oughta give these counter staff something, but something more useful than body armour. In fact, the employer has an obligation to strategize and get results in these areas of employee safety. How does an employer meet the new obligations that Bill 168 imposes? What would be the right things to do in a situation like the ones introduced at the beginning of this article? Ontario laws now have requirements for employers to design, display, implement and regularly review written policies and related practices with respect to both workplace violence and workplace harassment. “I can’t believe I have to fill in another #!%#*!!# form. You people don’t want to help, you just want to make my life a living...” “Sir, if you can’t use polite language, we’re not going to serve you.” “You haven’t served me yet, unless you call three weeks of delays, endless bureaucracy and no straight answers some kinda service... “
Employers are obliged to keep employees safe, but are sometimes at a loss as to how to protect staff in situations where the usual WHMIS posters, protective clothing, and safe equipment don’t offer the necessary protection. Premier Dalton McGuinty’s government introduced the legislation as a result of an inquest in response to the murder of nurse Lori Dupont in 2005. Dupont’s former boyfriend, Dr. Marc Daniel, stabbed her to death at the Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital in Windsor, Ont. The facility was aware of repeated and escalating harassment by Daniel, an anesthesiologist, but failed to discipline him and failed to support Ms Dupont. The pair was actually scheduled to work together on the day he killed her.
“Exaggeration won’t make your case go any quicker, sir, if you follow the instructions on the back of the form...” “If I have to come in here again, it’s going to be your very worst day, next time I call and get that voicemail, I’m coming right down here and every body’s going to be sorry, got it?” “Phew, that guy’s a definite nut bar, every time he comes in here, my heart jumps into my throat, nothing makes him happy, and if I really do tell him to get out, he’ll write the mayor or somebody and I’ll be in deep doodoo. They oughta give us helmets and flak jackets for heaven’s sake. You know what the supervisor will say: ‘if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen’...you don’t want to be the complaint queen.”
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Organizational response and compliance with Bill 168
There is a flurry of offers, material and services offered to organizations seeking compliance to Bill 168 from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Do It Yourselfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; kits to Human Resource and Legal Consultations. All of them recommend that every organization do the following: Create and conduct a workplace violence risk assessment:
The costs of workplace violence and harassment are high, both for the victims and their employers. Workplace violence in ALL work settings is one of the only categories of crime that is NOT in decline. The domestic violence provisions, unique to Ontarioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legislation, are also addressed in the Act requiring employers to take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of workers when they are aware, or ought reasonably to be aware, that domestic violence may occur in the workplace, and that it would likely expose a worker to physical injury.
Employers are required to assess the risks of workplace violence that may arise from the nature of the workplace, the type of work or the conditions of work. Employers should develop a response plan for each risk identified. Performing a review of all incident reports and distributing a survey or interviewing employees on safety concerns and perceptions are some of the best practices identified with physical (the workplace premises) and operational (the way work is performed) safety audits.
Defining Workplace Violence
Any definition of workplace violence must encompass the full range of behaviors that can cause injury, damage property, impede the normal course of work, or make workers, managers, and customers fear for their safety. At the low end of the workplace violence continuum lie disruptive, aggressive, hostile, or emotionally abusive behaviors that generate anxiety or create a climate of distrust, and that adversely affect productivity and morale. These could potentially escalate into more outright physical violence.
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Create a workplace violence and harassment program:
Creating a renewal process
Create policies to respond to workplace violence and harassment:
The worst mistake an organization could make would be to think that this is another piece of legislation where a wait-and-see approach might work best for the moment. This approach is in breach of the legislation and could result in fines up to $500,000 to companies and up to $25,000 or 12 months imprisonment for individuals.
This program will address the risks identified in the assessment including procedures, training and security protocols or infrastructure (locks, lights, signage...) to reduce or prevent violent incidents at the workplace. Knowing what to do when confronted with violence or harassment and knowing what should happen next is empowering for employees facing such situations.
It is essential to create procedures for all employees (mobile as well as static) to report incidents of workplace violence / harassment or threats of violence. These policies should clearly indicate how an employee can summon immediate assistance or refuse work when feeling at risk, and the process for filing a complaint. The employers investigative process should be clearly outlined for employees and managers as well as step by step timelines for dealing with incidents, threats and complaints. The same policies must be posted at the workplace, be made available to all electronically, and presented to all staff in training sessions.
The worst mistake an organization could make would be to think that this is another piece of legislation where a wait-and-see approach might work best for the moment.
Create tools and processes to implement the program:
Comprehensive documents for complaints, investigations and other types of communication are imperative to this strategy. All employees need to know what form needs to be filed, what information needs to be written and to whom it needs to be given. All forms and documents need to be carefully designed so that they stay user friendly and yield as much information as possible to conduct a useful investigation. In larger firms, employee committees can be created with the specific intent of reviewing all existing documents or for the creation of new ones.
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Risk should be reviewed annually at a minimum. Risk also needs to be re-assessed when a new or different type of violence is identified in the workplace; if a new facility is built or renovated; or if there are significant changes in the way business is delivered or the type of clientele.
Organizations are encouraged to visit the following sites for more information, tool kits and other relevant documents: Ministry of Labourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guideline Workplace Violence and Harassment: Understanding the Law http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/wpvh/index.php A Toolbox of Resources and Templates http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pdf/wvps_toolbox.pdf Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety http://www.ccohs.ca Domestic Violence Doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Stop When Your Worker Arrives at Work: What Employers Need to Know to Help http://www.hchsa. on.ca/products/free_resource.shtml About the Authors:
Steve Hall is a partner at the Strategic Improvement Company (www.sicsecurity. com) and a long time consultant for the Canadian Training Institute. Steve has been working in the field of safety and security for over 25 years. Experienced in customized training design and delivery, facility aidits and risk assessment, Steve assists businesses and agencies in implementation of Bill 168 strategies. Steve can be reached at 647.454.1742 or shall.sic@telus.blackberry.net. Gordon Mack Scott, also a partner at the Strategic Improvement Company, has more than 30 years experience in law enforcement, investigation services, education and consulting with business and social agencies. He has lectured at Centenial College and York University and presented at national and international conferences. He can be reached at 416.707.0419 or gmscott@telus.blackberry.net.
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THE ROLE OF THE MEDIA FORMING ATTITUDES TOWARDS MENTAL ILLNESS
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By:
Kismet Baun
television, they are violent and murderous—both in drama and comedy shows. Slasher movies give birth to multiple sequels. Batman’s foes, the Joker and the Penguin, are “insane.” Even children’s literature is rife with mentally ill villains. In the Harry Potter books, one character is termed “mad” and hence deemed “a danger to anyone who crosses him.” All too often, the media use sensational language that tends to perpetuate myths and stereotypes regarding mental illness, promote fear in the community and lead to irresponsible conclusions being drawn. Provocative mainstream newspaper headlines such as “Terror, mentally ill threaten Games”
transforms a health issue into a public safety issue and capitalizes on the fear of violence and irrationality that lack of understanding about mental illness can cause. Persons identified as mentally-ill are all too often embraced by the media as the secular version of the devil, transmogrified into the out-of-control madman bent on a rampage of seemingly inexplicable death and destruction. In reality, mental illness is a poor predictor of violence. The majority of people who are violent do not suffer from mental illnesses. As a group, mentally ill people are no more violent than any other group. In fact, people with mental illnesses are far more likely to be the victims of violence than to be violent themselves.
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he often negative ways that the media portray mental illnesses, is something of which many mental health consumers are painfully aware. Distorted and demeaning images of mental illnesses when presented to the public shape their attitudes and, in turn, influences their behaviour. When those images are unfavourable and inaccurate, as they often are, they contribute to the stigma and discrimination that represent barriers to treatment and recovery. Movies, television, newspaper articles and books often present people with mental illnesses as dangerous or unstable. Despite notable exceptions like the Academy Award-winning film A Beautiful Mind, most often novels, films and television continue the representation of people with mental illnesses as unpredictable, child-like, hyper-sexual, dangerous, evil and violent. In popular fiction, “mental cases” commit violent crimes. On
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Current research shows that people with major mental illness are 2.5 times
more likely to be the victims of violence than other members of society. It is estimated that one in every four persons with mental illness will experience violent victimization every year, a rate
of the foremost obstacles to improved mental health care today, noting that “Stigma tragically deprives people of their dignity and interferes with their full participation in society.” Stigma in relation to people with mental illness can be understood as a combination
“…up to 20% of the population, will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives. One in three will suffer from a severe and persistent mental illness, and one in eight will actually be hospitalized.” that is eleven times higher than the rate of violent victimization experienced by the general population. Mental illness plays no part in the majority of violent crimes committed in our society. The assumption that any and every mental illness carries with it an almost certain potential for violence has been proven wrong in many studies. Recent studies have shown that alcohol and substance abuse far outweigh mental illness in contributing to violence. A 1996 Health Canada review of scientific articles found that the strongest predictor of violence and criminal behaviour is not major mental illness, but past history of violence and criminality. Such factors as age, gender, substance abuse and educational level are, among others, significantly greater contributors to violence than mental disorders. The conditions which increase the risk of violence are the same whether a person has a mental illness or not. Mental illness is often viewed as a rare phenomenon that happens only to a special group of (flawed) individuals unlike ourselves. But in fact, in Canada, mental illness is the single largest category of disease affecting Canadians. One in five Canadians, or up to 20% of the population, will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives. One in three will suffer from a severe and persistent mental illness, and one in eight will actually be hospitalized. So it is, in fact, not that faceless group over there but it is our neighbours, our friends, our loved ones, and perhaps even ourselves. Stigma is defined in the dictionary as a “mark or sign of disgrace or discredit.” The word stigma is derived from the Greek word ‘stigmatos’ meaning mark made by a pointed instrument, a brand signifying the marks that were pricked onto slaves to demonstrate ownership and reflect their inferior social status. The 1999 Surgeon General’s Report on Mental Health identified stigma as one c r i m e s e n s e m ag . c o m
of problems of knowledge (ignorance), attitudes (prejudice) and behaviour (discrimination). Simply put, stigma refers to an attitude. Discrimination is the behaviour created by that attitude. Stigma is burdensome. Added to the weight of already painful and sometimes overwhelming psychiatric disorders is the hurt of other people’s disdain, dislike and avoidance. Most mental health consumers admit that the stigma that accompanies the mental illness is worse than the illness itself. Not only is it difficult for those with mental disorders to face a world that misunderstands and devalues them, but it is also isolating. Stigma also has the power to undermine the search for treatment. Those who are reluctant to acknowledge their disorders are also likely to delay (or avoid altogether) seeking appropriate (psychiatric) help, because that treatment will itself mark them as undesirable. Fear of disclosure may lead those with mental illnesses to themselves increase their distance from others. Fear of unfavourable public responses and of losing friends, furthermore, often leads to an additional burden – the burden of keeping one’s illness a secret, of bearing it silently, of fearing disclosure. Mental illness stigma also leads to discrimination in housing and reduced employment opportunities. Lack of safe, affordable, available housing contributes to homelessness, which then adds to the burden of mental illness the challenge of daily survival. Inadequate, unhealthy living conditions and increased stress are hardly conducive to improved mental functioning. Reduced employment opportunities leads to poverty. Poverty affects nearly 1.8 million Ontarians and is both a cause and a consequence of poor mental health. People with serious mental illness may have difficulty over their lifetime securing adequate education and employment, due to barriers such as stigma and discrimination and recurrence of symptoms. These barriers, in turn, affect
one’s ability to have an adequate income. As a result, individuals with a serious mental illness often drift into poverty. Shortages of affordable housing, inadequate income, and exclusion from quality education and employment alienate individuals from life in the community. Exclusion from these economic supports significantly increases the risk of chronic poverty. Attitudes and impressions of the public around issues relating to mental illness are, largely, shaped by persistent negative patterns created and perpetuated by the media. The mass media are far and away the Canadian public’s primary sources of information concerning people identified as mentally-ill. For better or worse, the media in our society shapes our ideas of what the world and its members are like. Studies have shown that exposure to even just one single shocking media image (one movie or reading one article) of violent mental illness seemed to increase the expectation that those labeled as mentally ill are particularly likely to do physical harm to others and to make the media consumer more fearful of those so labeled. The end result is that the public begins perceiving those with mental illnesses as a “different” group or kind of people, and it creates further barriers to communication and understanding and sets up the perfect conditions for stigma and stereotyping. It is difficult to feel good about oneself when confronted by constant messages that people with mental illnesses are flawed, dangerous, disapproved of, and disliked. And among the effects of viewing oneself portrayed again and again in a demeaning and unfavourable way are hurt and anger. We need, as a society, to continue to strive to reduce and eliminate the stigma and discrimination that so many with mental illness experience in their day to day lives. Let’s face it -- people can and do recover from mental illness if provided with the supports and services necessary to facilitate and nurture a sense of hope, wellness and a belief that tomorrow will be better than today. CS
Kismet Baun is a Senior Communications Advisor at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
for more information visit: CMHA.ca
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Teenagers that experience being bullied are more inclined to perceive the emotional abuse given by bullies as something that will never go away. Teenage victims of bullying often do not realize that they will eventually graduate from high school; age and become an adult ; or that the bully will not be around to bully them always. Because many teenagers are unable to see past their current circumstance they are more inclined to see suicide as way of ending a temporary situation. Teenagers that find themselves contemplating suicide, usually portray some warning signs prior to attempting to kill themselves. Even though most teens typically portray several warning signs, some teens may not potray any outward warning signs at all. Although face to face bullying among teens at home and school can cause teens to turn to suicide as a way out or a way to end abuse; cyber-bullying can provoke teens to commit suicide as well. Cyberbulling is often more humiliating and traumatizing to teens victimized online, because perpetrators can easily post unwanted pictures, videos, and even share private information of their victim with hundreds to thousands of people online. Social network sites that teens use to harass other teens are Facebook and My Space, for example. Teenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also frequently post embarrassing videos of their victim on You Tube. Teens often use the You Tube website to post videos of their peers being physically assaulted, in order to humiliate their victims and entertain their peers. When teens record and post such videos, the temporary humiliation that the victim experienced is then automatically extended and repeatedly relived when other teens watch and continue to remind the victim of the assault or how they failed to win a fight initiated by their aggressor. Such an experience often causes teens to contemplate suicide or even attempt to commit the act. Often teens bully others online by spreading vicious rumors and by namecalling. Teenagers that already have low-self-esteem or suffer from depression are much more likely to contemplate suicide when they experience this type of harassment. Teenage bullying canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always be stopped or even prevented no matter how protective parents are or what anti-school bullying policies are implemented. But the rate of teenage suicide attempts can be prevented as parents and school administrations become more knowledgeable of warning signs that teens show when they are contemplating suicide.
Cyberbulling is often more humiliating and traumatizing to teens victimized online
Personal Experience
I too was once a victim of teenage bullying and I understand what it feels like; to feel as if there is no way out. I know what it feels like to feel so hopeless until the concept of dying seems like a pathway to freedom out of the emotional abuse that had mentally enslaved me. I also know what it felt like to have strong family support and be surrounded with people that cared about me. Had I not had proper support, a temporary unpleasant experience could have become a permanent tragedy. I survived, I lived and the bullies eventually disappeared. Had I committed suicide I would have died thinking that suicide was the only way to be free. I would not have come to know that eventually I would move on and my bullies would one day be all gone and I would become a feature writer for OvercomeBully.org. Latricia Wilson is an OvercomeBullying.org feature writer. If you are an expert in a field related to bullying in school or the workplace and would like to contribute to our efforts and promote your website or services please contact us for more information. CS
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Such an experience often causes teens to contemplate suicide or even attempt to commit the act
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The New Epidemic Among Youth According to the World Health Organization (WHO) nearly a million people worldwide commit suicide each year. Out of that number, about 30,000 people reportedly kill themselves each year in the United States. Also, suicide has been found to be the third leading cause of death for people in the age ranges of 15-24. Young people are much more likely to attempt to or commit suicide due to their inability to cope with a variety of factors they often find themselves unable to control. One factor that makes teenagers feel helpless, hopeless, and defenceless is when they are bullied or harassed by others repeatedly. The emotional and mental turmoil that bullying causes its victims to experience gives these individuals a false perception that they have been permanently trapped by the abuse of their bully or bullies. Teenagers often have trouble seeing past the present situation at hand, so when they experience this type of extreme rejection by their peers, that bullies often influence, they are less inclined to view the abuse as a temporary situation.
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