ABSTRACT
Difficulties within forensic institutions often only come to light in the event of a serious incident. Specific problems, or difficulties observed in a particular service user may be a symptom of problems within the wider organisation.
Common phenomena observed within forensic institutions are:
a tendency to act rather than think.
splitting within and between staff.
the establishing of opposing groups of professionals.
denial of the ongoing degree of risk of the client.
the gradual erosion of boundaries.
indicators of poorly functioning units are: high rates of untoward incidents, high levels of staff stress, disputes between staff, lateness for work, sickness, dismissals, resignations and scapegoating of particular staff.
