Repeated emphasis on the role of mental illness in crime runs the risk of conflating the mentally ill population with the criminal population. Most people suffering from mental illness don’t commit crimes. Constant repetition of the link further stigmatizes a lot of people who are not criminals. For example, most combat veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder do not commit crimes.
We also risk diminishing the role of personal responsibility. Most people who suffer from substance abuse and mental illness problems do not turn to crime. Two people struggle with the same demons; one chooses to victimize other people while the other does not. There is still a moral dimension to the choice to commit crime.
Finally, we should not let the important task of combating domestic violence distract us from other victims. For example, we tend to regard property crimes as relatively unimportant. But many victims of theft, burglary and vehicle-prowling feel violated and have their sense of security significantly dented. As well, identity theft and related crimes exact a large economic toll.
Mental illness and addictions definitely play a role in crime. But most people with those problems don’t commit crimes. And for victims, it doesn’t matter what motivation or personal problem the criminal has – it’s the outcome that hurts.
