Perceptions of Remorse in Forensic Patients and Forensic Mental Health Professionals

This study investigated perceptions of remorse in Forensic Patients and forensic mental health professionals in Victoria, Australia. The data revealed that Forensic Patients had strong feelings of remorse, even though they had been found not guilty of an offence on the grounds of mental impairment. Most Forensic Patients thought their feelings of remorse should be addressed in the therapeutic treatment they received. The forensic mental health professionals indicated that negative labels were often applied to Forensic Patients who did not display remorse. The professionals' experience levels also influenced their views about the value of addressing remorse with Forensic Patients.