Forensic psychiatry experiences - a medical student visits New Zealand

Abstract

This paper describes a medical student elective spent in asmall forensic psychiatry unit serving the south island of New Zealand. Patients seen in the unit or related prisons had often suffered severe past abus, psychopathic personalities were encountered, and alcohol and drug abuse, violence, and family disruption were common background factors. Treatment regimens were multidisciplinary, and community forms of care seemed to work well.