Forensic psychiatric assessments in the Northwest territories

This paper is an analysis of the psychosocial and forensic factors leading to legal referrals to a northern mental health service. It was found, not surprisingly, that most criminal acts were associated with alcoholism, personality disorders, and low socioeconomic status. Young native males figured prominently in both violent and property crimes. Rape offenses and major psychopathology appeared to be more common among Inuit referrals. The influence of rapid culture change and psychosocial and biologic predisposition to the deleterious effects of alcohol were considered relevant criminogenic factors. It was also felt that the high Inuit referral rate might have been related to their willingness to accept consultation and discuss symptoms of mental illness.