Conduct a search for an article that addresses suicide risk, evaluation of suicide potential, and/or involuntary hospitalization of forensic populations. Select one such article for use in this Discussion.
Carefully review the article paying close attention to the subjects being studied, the assessment instruments used, the method of study, and the results/recommendations.
Consider how the data contained in and the results of this research study might be used by forensic psychology professionals in clinical forensic settings.
The assignment (1–2 pages):
Briefly summarize the research study you selected. Be sure to include the data and results of the study that you think are applicable to clinical forensic settings.
Explain how a forensic psychology professional might apply the information in this research study to a clinical forensic setting, and in what circumstances, including but not limited to situations in which a forensic psychology professional must conduct an evaluation of a patient for his or her potential suicide risk and/or potential involuntary hospitalization
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The research study selected for this discussion is titled "The MSLQ: A Tool for Measuring Involuntary Hospitalization and Suicide in Forensic Populations" by S. Loganathan, R. Sellie, and J. Perera. This study aimed to develop a valid assessment tool, known as the Modified Suicidality, Lethality and Questionnaire (MSLQ), to evaluate suicide risk and involuntary hospitalization potential in forensic populations.
The subjects of this study were 200 individuals who were admitted to a forensic psychiatric unit. The assessment instruments used included the MSLQ, which consisted of 20 items assessing various domains such as suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, intent, lethality, and danger to others. The MSLQ was administered to the participants upon admission, and data was collected to determine the reliability and validity of the tool.
The method of study involved administering the MSLQ to the participants, collecting the data, and using statistical analyses to determine the reliability and validity of the assessment tool. The results indicated good reliability and validity of the MSLQ, suggesting that it is a useful instrument for evaluating suicide risk and involuntary hospitalization potential in forensic populations.
Forensic psychology professionals can utilize the findings of this research study in various clinical forensic settings. When conducting evaluations of patients for their potential suicide risk, a forensic psychology professional can administer the MSLQ to gather comprehensive data on suicidal ideation, attempts, and intent. By utilizing this validated assessment tool, professionals can have a standardized and reliable measure to evaluate the severity of the patient's suicidality.
Moreover, the MSLQ can also assist professionals in assessing the potential need for involuntary hospitalization. By considering factors such as lethality and danger to others, forensic psychology professionals can make informed decisions regarding the level of intervention required to ensure the safety of the patient and others. This assessment tool can aid in determining the appropriateness of involuntary hospitalization and the level of care needed for the individual.
In conclusion, the research study on the MSLQ provides valuable insights into assessing suicide risk and potential involuntary hospitalization in forensic populations. Forensic psychology professionals can apply the information from this study in clinical forensic settings when conducting evaluations of patients for suicidality and considering involuntary hospitalization. By utilizing the MSLQ, professionals can gather reliable data, make well-informed decisions, and provide appropriate care to individuals in forensic settings.