Stigmatization of Mental Disorders: Individuals with Mental Suffering in the Brazilian Criminal Justice System

Abstract

This study aims to examine the criminal treatment afforded to individuals with mental disorders, focusing on the application of security measures. Through bibliographic and theoretical research, it demonstrates how the Brazilian criminal justice system still relies on an asylum-based model for crimes committed by individuals with mental disorders, disregarding advances in psychiatry, particularly those introduced by the Psychiatric Reform Law. This model is grounded in segregation and reflects societal neglect and stigma toward individuals with mental illness, often resulting in treatment more severe than that imposed on other offenders. Furthermore, the article seeks to present more effective and humane approaches to the treatment of these individuals, which have already been successfully implemented in certain cities in Brazil. By adopting these new models nationwide, it is possible to move toward a more humane and democratic society.