Abstract
Mental Health Act 1983 section136 allows a non-medically trained professional to deprive individual liberty on mere suspicion of a mental disorder, based on ‘disorderly’ behaviour in the community. This study describes the characteristics, presentation and outcomes of adolescents, subjected to s.136. Socio-demographic, psychiatric and s.136 data were collected from 40 adolescents and consecutive same-sex adults placed on s.136 over a three year period in a London Mental Health Trust. Categorical variables were compared using Pearson χ2 analysis (or Fishers Exact test, where indicated). Twice as many female as male adolescents were brought in on s.136. Adolescents were found with higher rates of institutionalisation, abuse, criminal histories and more likely to be brought in due to self-harm. Despite evidence of vulnerability and psychiatric problems, about half were admitted to hospital following assessment. Further research to address the needs and improve service provision for this group is indicated.
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